Where did Landscape Fountains Come From?

Pure functionality was the original purpose of fountains. Residents of cities, townships and small towns used them as a source of drinking water and a place to wash up, which meant that fountains had to be linked to nearby aqueduct or spring. Up until the 19th century, fountains had to be more elevated and closer to a water source, including aqueducts and reservoirs, in order to benefit from gravity which fed the fountains. Fountains were an excellent source of water, and also served to decorate living areas and celebrate the designer. Animals or heroes made of bronze or stone masks were often times used by Romans to beautify their fountains. During the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden planners included fountains to create mini variations of the gardens of paradise. King Louis XIV of France wanted to demonstrate his superiority over nature by including fountains in the Gardens of Versailles. The Popes of the 17th and 18th centuries were extolled with baroque style fountains constructed to mark the arrival points of Roman aqueducts.

Since indoor plumbing became the standard 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. Fountains using mechanical pumps instead of gravity helped fountains to provide recycled water into living spaces as well as create unique water effects.

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

The Charm of Wall Fountains

Even a living space with a modern look can be improved with a wall fountain. Stainless steel or glass are two of the materials used to make modern-day types which add a stylish element to your decor. Does your home or business have a limited amount of space? A wall water fountain is perhaps the best solution for you. They take up no room since they are mounted on a wall. These kinds of fountains are especially prevalent in bustling office buildings. Indoor spaces are not the only places to display a wall fountain, however. Exterior wall water features can be made of fiberglass or resin. Courtyards, porches, or other outdoor spaces needing a stylish touch should include a water fountain made of one of these weather-proof materials.

There is wide array of distinctive styles in wall fountains running from the modern to classic and rustic. The type you select for your space is dictated by your individual design preferences. The materials utilzed to decorate a mountain lodge differ from that needed to embellish a high-rise apartment, the former perhaps requiring slate and the latter better served with sleek glass. It is up to you to select the ideal material for you. One thing is guaranteed, however, fountains are elements which will no doubt dazzle your guests.