The Countless Styles of Wall Water Fountains

Depending on your wishes, you can choose from mounted or freestanding models. Small, self-contained versions can be hung on a wall are known as mounted wall fountains. Ordinarily made of resin (to look like stone) or fiber glass, these sorts of fountains are lightweight and easy to hang. In large stand-alone fountains, otherwise referred to as wall fountains, the basin is situated on the ground with the smooth side positioned against a wall. Typically constructed of cast stone, this kind of water feature is not limited in weight.

Customized fountains which can be incorporated into a new or existing wall are often recommended by landscaping designers. A expert mason is required to place the water basin against the wall and properly install all the plumbing inside or behind the wall. You will need to incorporate a spout or fountain mask into the wall. The cohesive look produced by customized wall fountains make them appear to be part of the scenery instead of an afterthought.

Contemporary Garden Decoration: Outdoor Fountains and their Beginnings

From the onset, outdoor fountains were simply there to serve as functional elements. Water fountains were connected to a spring or aqueduct to provide 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 down or shoot high into the air. Acting as an element of decoration and celebration, fountains also provided clean, fresh drinking water. The main materials used by the Romans to create their fountains were bronze or stone masks, mostly illustrating animals or heroes. Throughout the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden planners included fountains to create mini variations of the gardens of paradise. The fountains seen in the Gardens of Versailles were meant to show the power over nature held by King Louis XIV of France. Seventeen and 18 century Popes sought to extol their positions by adding decorative baroque-style fountains at the point where restored Roman aqueducts arrived into the city.

Since indoor plumbing became the standard of the day for fresh, drinking water, by the end of the 19th century urban fountains were no longer needed for this purpose and they became purely decorative. The creation of special water effects and the recycling of water were two things made possible by replacing gravity with mechanical pumps.

Modern fountains are used to embellish public spaces, honor individuals or events, and enhance recreational and entertainment events.

Aqueducts: The Remedy to Rome's Water Problems