The Many Construction Materials of Garden Water fountains

Today, many people elect copper for their sculptural garden fountains. Copper fountains are the ideal choice because they are perfect for the inside and outside. If you decide to go with copper, your fountain can be any style from fun and whimsical to cutting-edge.

If your style is more traditional, a brass water fountain might be perfect for you. Even though they are a bit old-fashioned, brass fountains are quite popular because they often incorporate interesting artwork.

The most modern metal right now is probably stainless steel. For an instant increase in the value and comfort of your garden, get one of the contemporary steel designs. As with any type of fountain, they are available in many sizes.

Fiberglass fountains are popular because they look similar to metal but are more affordable and much less cumbersome to move around. The upkeep of fiberglass water fountains is quite simple, so they have many advantages that people appreciate.

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 supply drinkable water as well as bathing water for cities, townships and villages. Up until the 19th century, fountains had to be more elevated and closer to a water source, such as aqueducts and reservoirs, in order to benefit from gravity which fed the fountains. Designers thought of fountains as amazing additions to a living space, however, the fountains also served to provide clean water and honor the designer responsible for creating it. The main materials used by the Romans to create their fountains were bronze or stone masks, mostly illustrating animals or heroes. To replicate the gardens of paradise, Muslim and Moorish garden planners of the Middle Ages introduced fountains to their designs. King Louis XIV of France wanted to illustrate his dominion over nature by including fountains in the Gardens of Versailles. The Popes of the 17th and 18th centuries were extolled with baroque style fountains made to mark the arrival points of Roman aqueducts.

Urban fountains built at the end of the 19th century functioned only as decorative and celebratory adornments since indoor plumbing provided the essential drinking water. The introduction of special water effects and the recycling of water were two things made possible by swapping gravity with mechanical pumps.

Contemporary fountains are used to adorn community spaces, honor individuals or events, and enrich recreational and entertainment events.