Where did Fountains Come From?

The primary purpose of a fountain was originally strictly practical. Residents of cities, townships and small towns utilized them as a source of drinking water and a place to wash up, which meant that fountains needed to be connected to nearby aqueduct or spring. 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 flow down or shoot high into the air. Fountains were an excellent source of water, and also served to decorate living areas and memorialize the designer. Bronze or stone masks of animals and heroes were commonly seen on Roman fountains. During the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden designers included fountains in their designs to mimic the gardens of paradise. To demonstrate his dominance over nature, French King Louis XIV included fountains in the Garden of Versailles. Seventeen and 18 century Popes sought to laud their positions by adding decorative baroque-style fountains at the point where restored Roman aqueducts arrived into the city.

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. Amazing water effects and recycled water were made possible by switching the force of gravity with mechanical pumps.

These days, fountains decorate public areas and are used to honor individuals or events and fill recreational and entertainment needs.

The Countless Styles of Water Wall Fountains

The two types of water features available to you include mounted and stand-alone models. Mounted wall fountains are small and self-contained versions which can be hung on a wall. One of the most important aspects of wall fountains is that they be lightweight, so they are normally made of fiberglass or resin to mirror the look of stone. Large-sized free-standing wall fountains, often referred to as floor fountains, have their basins located on the floor and a flat side leaning on a wall. Water features such as these are typically made of cast stone and have no weight limitations.

Many skilled landscapers favor custom-built fountains which can be incorporated into a brand-new wall or an existing one. A professional mason is necessary to place the water basin against the wall and properly install all the plumbing inside or behind the wall. A fountain mask or a spout also needs to be incorporated into the wall. Custom-built wall fountains contribute to a unified look because they become part of the landscape rather than look like a later addition.

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Modern Wall Water Features

A wall fountain can add a great deal of elegance, even to today's living areas. If you wish to embellish your modern-day decor, look into adding one made of stainless steel or glass. Does your home or office have a restricted amount of space? A wall water fountain is probably the best choice for you. Since they are mounted on a wall you can save your precious real estate for something else. These kinds of fountains are especially prevalent in bustling office buildings. Wall fountains can be put up outdoors as well. Consider using fiberglass or resin for your outdoor wall water feature. Use water fountains made of these weather-proof materials to liven up your garden, patio, or other outdoor space.

Wall fountains come in a variety of differing styles covering the modern to the traditional and rustic. You can choose the best style based upon your personal preferences. A mountain lodge might require a conventional material such as slate whereas a high rise apartment might require sleek glass to enliven the interior space. The material you choose depends solely on your design ideas. There is no doubting the fact that fountains are features which impress visitors and add to your quality of life.

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