The Effect of the Norman Invasion on Anglo-Saxon Garden Design
The Effect of the Norman Invasion on Anglo-Saxon Garden Design The Anglo-Saxon way of life was dramatically changed by the appearance of the Normans in the later eleventh century. Architecture and gardening were abilities that the Normans excelled in, trumping that of the Anglo-Saxons at the time of the occupation. But home life, household architecture, and decoration were out of the question until the Normans taken over the rest of the populace. Monasteries and castles served separate functions, so while monasteries were massive stone structures constructed in only the most fruitful, wide dales, castles were set upon blustery knolls where the people focused on learning offensive and defensive practices. Peaceful pastimes such as gardening were out of place in these destitute citadels. The early Anglo-Norman style of architecture is depicted in Berkeley Castle, which is perhaps the most unscathed illustration we have. The keep is reported to have been invented during the time of William the Conqueror. An enormous terrace encompasses the building, serving as an obstacle to attackers intending to dig under the castle walls. One of these terraces, a charming bowling green, is covered grass and flanked by an old yew hedge cut into the shape of crude battlements.Where did Garden Water Fountains Come From?
Where did Garden Water Fountains Come From? A fountain, an amazing piece of engineering, not only supplies drinking water as it pours into a basin, it can also launch water high into the air for a noteworthy effect.Pure practicality was the original purpose of fountains.
Water fountains were linked to a spring or aqueduct to supply drinkable water as well as bathing water for cities, townships and villages. Up to the late nineteenth century, water fountains had to be near an aqueduct or reservoir and higher than the fountain so that gravity could make the water move downwards or jet high into the air. Fountains were not only utilized as a water source for drinking water, but also to adorn homes and celebrate the artist who created it. Bronze or stone masks of animals and heroes were commonly seen on Roman fountains. Muslims and Moorish landscaping designers of the Middle Ages included fountains to re-create smaller models of the gardens of paradise. Fountains played a significant role in the Gardens of Versailles, all part of French King Louis XIV’s desire to exert his power over nature. To mark the entryway of the restored Roman aqueducts, the Popes of the 17th and 18th centuries commissioned the building of baroque style fountains in the spot where the aqueducts arrived in the city of Rome
The end of the nineteenth century saw the increase in usage of indoor plumbing to supply drinking water, so urban fountains were relegated to purely decorative elements. Fountains using mechanical pumps instead of gravity helped fountains to bring recycled water into living spaces as well as create unique water effects.
Beautifying city parks, honoring people or events and entertaining, are some of the functions of modern-day fountains.
Animals and Fountains
Animals and Fountains Think about how your cat or dog may react to a water feature before you get one. A pet dog or cat may think that a freestanding fountain is a large pool or a drinking pond. Adding a water feature to your yard is a great idea, one which is certain to benefit your pets.
Think about the ideal spot to put your fountain if you do not want birds to use it as a bathing pond. If you wish to purposely attract birds, however, putting in a birdbath is an ideal solution. The indoor use of wall water fountains is completely possible if wish to avoid these problems. Exclusive mansions, in addition to dentist’ and doctors’ practices, often have such fountains on display.
How Fountains can be Ideal for the Environment
How Fountains can be Ideal for the Environment Do you desire to make your personal space just a little more beautiful? Solar fountains might be the answer - they are a perfect add-on to any home because they embellish the layout and raise the price of your home. Solar powered fountains can be a wiser investment versus electric ones because they not only improve one's health but they offer other interesting monetary perks. While your initial expenditure may be higher, the long-term savings are beneficial. Despite periodic power shortages, your fountain will not be affected because it does not run on electricity. Constant running water fountains will probably lead to a higher electric bill at the end of the month. Although short-term costs might be higher than you had anticipated, don't forget that your home is increasing in value.
The increased expenses resulting from using more electricity is not the only factor, it also damages our eco-system. The only source of energy used by solar powered water features is the sun making them a “green” option. Using solar power to run a water feature is not only worthwhile to our environment but it also heats and cools our homes.
This type of fountain demands less maintenance than others. Since these do not run using an electric motor that could clog up with debris, they need little cleaning. And since there is little cleaning to do, you will have more time to play!
The One Cleaning Solution to NEVER Use On Your Garden Water fountains
The One Cleaning Solution to NEVER Use On Your Garden Water fountains To ensure that water fountains last a long time, it is vital to practice regular maintenance. A typical issue with fountains is that they tend to collect dirt and debris, so it is essential that you keep it free from this. Another factor is that water that is subjected to sunlight is prone to growing algae.
To avoid this, there are some common ingredients that can be mixed into the water, such as vinegar, sea salt, or hydrogen peroxide. Bleach can also be put into the water, however this is not the ideal option as it can sicken birds or other animals. A thorough cleaning every three-four months is recommended for garden fountains. The first step is to get rid of all of the water. Then use gentle and a soft sponge to clean the innner part of the reservoir. If there are any little grooves, work with a toothbrush to reach every spot. Make sure all the soap is totally washed off.
Some organisms and calcium deposits can get inside the pump, so it is best to take it apart and clean it thoroughly. Letting it soak in vinegar for several hours first will make it much easier to clean. Neither rain water nor mineral water contain ingredients that will build up inside the pump, so use either over tap water if possible.
And finally, make sure the water level is continuously full in order to keep your fountain operating optimally. Allowing the water to drop below the pump’s intake level, can cause major damage and even make the pump burn out - an undesired outcome!
The Various Construction Materials of Outdoor Fountains
The Various Construction Materials of Outdoor Fountains Garden fountains today are mostly made from metal, though you can find them in other materials too. Metallic models offer clean lines and unique sculptural accents and will fit in with nearly any decorative style and budget. If you have a modern-day look and feel to your interior design, your yard and garden should reflect that same look. Today, many people choose copper for their sculptural garden fountains. Copper is used in cascade and tabletop water fountains as well as various other styles, making it versatile enough for inside and outside fountains. Copper is also flexible enough that you can pick a range of styles for your fountain, from contemporary to whimsical.
Brass water fountains are also common, although they tend to have a more traditional look than copper ones. You will see a lot of brass fountains, as their interesting artwork makes them trendy even if they are on the more traditional side.
Most people today see stainless steel as the most modern option. Adding a modern-looking steel design will immediately add value to your garden and improve the overall atmosphere. Like other water features, they come in an array of sizes.
For people who want the appearance of a metal fountain but desire a lighter weight and more affordable option, fiberglass is the answer. The maintenance of fiberglass water fountains is quite simple, so they have many advantages that people appreciate.