Where did Fountains Begin?

Pure practicality was the original role of fountains. Residents of cities, townships and small towns used them as a source of drinking water and a place to wash, which meant that fountains needed to be linked to nearby aqueduct or spring. Until the late nineteenth, century most water fountains functioned using the force of gravity to allow water to flow or jet into the air, therefore, they needed a supply of water such as a reservoir or aqueduct located higher than the fountain. Fountains were an excellent source of water, and also served to adorn living areas and memorialize the designer. The main components used by the Romans to create their fountains were bronze or stone masks, mostly depicting animals or heroes. To depict the gardens of paradise, Muslim and Moorish garden planners of the Middle Ages added fountains to their designs. King Louis XIV of France wanted to demonstrate his superiority over nature by including fountains in the Gardens of Versailles. Seventeen and 18 century Popes sought to laud their positions by including beautiful baroque-style fountains at the point where restored Roman aqueducts arrived into the city.

Since indoor plumbing became the norm of the day for clean, drinking water, by the end of the 19th century urban fountains were no longer needed for this purpose and they became purely decorative. Gravity was substituted by mechanical pumps in order to permit fountains to bring in clean water and allow for amazing water displays.

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

The Understated Appeal of the Outdoor Wall Fountain

Even a living space with a contemporary design can be improved with a wall fountain. Also available in modern-day materials such as stainless steel or glass, they can add pizzazz to your interior design. Is the floor space in your home or business scarce? The perfect option for you is putting in a wall water fountain. Since they are installed on a wall, these features do not take up precious room. You may notice that many busy office lobbies have fountains. You can also put up wall fountains outdoors. Exterior wall water features can be constructed of fiberglass or resin. Use water fountains made of these weather-proof materials to liven up your garden, patio, or other outdoor space.

Wall fountains can be made in a multitude of different styles ranging from contemporary to classic and provincial. The type you pick for your space is dictated by your individual design preferences. The kind of material used depends on the type of area which needs to be decorated such as slate for a traditional lodge or sleek glass for a modern apartment. You can pick the material most suited to your needs. One thing is sure, however, fountains are items which will no doubt dazzle your guests.