Articles

Enhancing Landscape Architecture Through Outdoor Fountains

by Wyatt Fisk

It is difficult to create a good looking outdoor space. Let's say that you already have your plants and outdoor furnishings in their respective places; after awhile you would notice that something is lacking, and then you'll eventually realize that you don't have a water feature that would make your garden appear more comforting and close to nature. Of course, you'll never ran out of water features to use for your outdoor space; from ponds and streams, to pools and water spouts, there are definitely wide selections to choose from. But, building these fixtures are time consuming and costly; what you need is a water feature that is cost efficient and easy to maintain, and a wall fountain could do just that.

Wall fountain is a relatively new concept when it comes to fountain design. As its name connotes, this water feature is installed on a wall. It is space efficient and suitable for small areas, but could also be used on wide wall spaces. A wall mounted fountain could be attached in several ways; some designs could be installed by using mortars with special T-block supports or decorative braces, while some finishes are equipped with some kind of mounting hardware.

The designs of wall fountain pieces are almost immeasurable, but in most cases they share the similar feature of having a jet of sprinkling water that directly goes to a basin or trough, which is the primary feature that makes it the focal point of a wall. One of the most favorite pick for wall-mounted fountain designs is the artisan finish which features hand carved heads of various characters that includes cherubs, lions, and mythological creatures, wherein the water spouts from the mouths of these characters. Wall shell or bowl fountains are also preferable choices credited to the series of basins they hold where water cascade gracefully and produces a delightful stream-like sound. They work well for classic looking landscapes and gardens, and are also suitable for personal outdoor spaces in urban areas as they control the amount of noise coming from roadways.

If space isn't an issue within your outdoor setting, floor fountains are the most ideal water features to use. As a matter of fact, they are probably the most sophisticated and deliberate means to integrate the element of water on your landscape. If installed in the right settings, these stand-alone water features become the focal point of landscape designs. Along with creating a visual impact, these fountains also evoke a comforting sensation through the splashing sound that the water produces.

Various floor fountains achieve different effects and purposes though they mainly function as decorative centerpieces. Like the wall-mounted ones, floor jets also come in various styles and sizes, and each of them befit all sorts of gardens fairly well. Ornamental statuary fountains are among the favorites of many designers and homeowners alike due to their comprehensive statue designs, which is why they are the most preferable choice for wide gardens and large commercial outdoor spaces. Birdbaths are also enticing floor water features that serve dual functions""aside from being decorative features they are also ideal resting place for birds.

If you have a tight-spaced outdoor space such as balcony, which would only allow you to integrate a comfortable lounge set, you could still integrate water in your design by using a tabletop water fountain. Like the large ones, this small water feature could liven up the look of your balcony and make it an ideal location for conversations. There are wide varieties of design to choose from that would permit you to maintain your balcony's design continuity. Some looks like flower vases complete with floral designs, while others are made from large pieces of rocks, which adds up to their au natural finish.

Fountains are dramatic inclusions for landscapes and other outdoor designs. The free standing element of floor fountains further highlights their appeal, making them ideal centerpieces for wide courtyards and gardens. A wall fountain on the other hand creates a sensual place within the garden wall, while a tabletop water fountain would do just as well as the other two if your outdoor space is only that of a small balcony.

Published August 11th, 2010

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