- Built using the DIY Rain Bench kit
We have seen a renewed interest in this age-old tradition and with it has come a world of creativity. From a rustic barnboard bench that stores rainwater to rainwater collecting waterfall systems to an entire outdoor kitchen that holds 1,000 gallons, the possibilities are getting ridiculously cool.
This pillar to the left holds about 60 gallons and has additional storage space on top accessed from the hinged cap.
Another great set of accessories we have successfully used on numerous rainwater harvesting systems is a built-in pressure pump and retractable hose reel. In the photo below, you can see the set-up and how the pump and hose are plumbed with a tank (in this case, two Rain Blox).
- 1/2hp pump with 25′ retracting hose
This pressurizing system can be attached to any standard rainwater system and costs about $165.
It can be found at most local hardware or home improvement stores. We will have a detailed step-by-step guide to putting it together soon, although we are constantly improving so it may look a bit different.
Of course, if you want to go all out, follow Michael Reynolds’ lead and get what they use and sell at earthship.com, a W.O.M. – Water Organizing Module. It’ll cost you $3100 but you can drink it! These guys know what they are doing, having almost 4 decades of experience..
The photos below illustrate how the pressurizing system fits within a patio bar. This system operates using an outdoor on/off switch mounted on the stone facade.
Outdoor switch controls pump inside
…aligning these photos is harder than it looks…
- Only the hose sleeve and nozzle show from the outer part of wall. This allows for easy access
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Below shows the view from this inside the home of the concealed 80 gallons. (note the outdoor switch mounted under the cap) There is also another rainwater harvesting system within the seat wall in the distance to the right (by the fire pit).
- There is a meandering stream just out of sight. We’re helping to keep in clean…
You can see a YouTube video of this system on our channel, or just scroll down this page… 
If you have any creative examples, or just ideas for harvesting rain, feel free to share! We have to do everything we can to make this a viable, attractive practice for everyone to do if it’s going to make a difference.
