One of the signs that an ancient people were truly civilized is evidence of the remains of pools, aqueducts and outdoor fountains. Desert people treasured water and a fountain displayed it like jewelry. Where water was plentiful elaborate architectural structures encouraged water to dance, cascade and splash in a lively celebration.
Many urban centers, ancient and new, were built with a fountain at the center in the main square. Fountains like the famous one in Rome often come equipped with legends that predict good luck for visitors who offer coins. Tourists pose for pictures where local folk once captured water for cooking and washing.
On a warm day moving water cooled the air and provided a pleasant place to rest and visit. It's no wonder that many city and village fountains are surrounded by places to eat and drink and sit outdoors. The pleasant splashing and burbling sounds of water provide an oasis of serenity as they insulate against the noises of surrounding activity.
Many monuments to heroes or events incorporate moving water as part of the design. Water washing over a list of names can suggest unity of purpose. Water rushing or cascading can remind an onlooker of justice rolling down like a mighty stream.
A fountain in a large garden can be a focal point unifying disparate elements. It can serve as a landmark, a point to return to when wandering winding paths. It can be a cool place to stop and rest.
A fountain can add interest to a small garden. The right water feature can turn a tiny yard or balcony into a peaceful oasis. An arrangement of water interacting with stones, wood, metal glass or bamboo can create a retreat conducive to meditation or refreshing the spirit.
The right fountain can serve as a a bird bath or a swimming pool for the dog. Just be sure those are purposes you want to serve. If you don't want dogs, birds or other creatures treating your water feature like the village water hole there are designs that are less likely to attract wildlife.
Outdoor fountains can be enjoyable for people of all ages if well planned. But even a shallow pool of water can be dangerous for small unsupervised children. However if children are part of the picture there are many types of fountains that can be built into walls or constructed without basins or pools that collect water.
Many urban centers, ancient and new, were built with a fountain at the center in the main square. Fountains like the famous one in Rome often come equipped with legends that predict good luck for visitors who offer coins. Tourists pose for pictures where local folk once captured water for cooking and washing.
On a warm day moving water cooled the air and provided a pleasant place to rest and visit. It's no wonder that many city and village fountains are surrounded by places to eat and drink and sit outdoors. The pleasant splashing and burbling sounds of water provide an oasis of serenity as they insulate against the noises of surrounding activity.
Many monuments to heroes or events incorporate moving water as part of the design. Water washing over a list of names can suggest unity of purpose. Water rushing or cascading can remind an onlooker of justice rolling down like a mighty stream.
A fountain in a large garden can be a focal point unifying disparate elements. It can serve as a landmark, a point to return to when wandering winding paths. It can be a cool place to stop and rest.
A fountain can add interest to a small garden. The right water feature can turn a tiny yard or balcony into a peaceful oasis. An arrangement of water interacting with stones, wood, metal glass or bamboo can create a retreat conducive to meditation or refreshing the spirit.
The right fountain can serve as a a bird bath or a swimming pool for the dog. Just be sure those are purposes you want to serve. If you don't want dogs, birds or other creatures treating your water feature like the village water hole there are designs that are less likely to attract wildlife.
Outdoor fountains can be enjoyable for people of all ages if well planned. But even a shallow pool of water can be dangerous for small unsupervised children. However if children are part of the picture there are many types of fountains that can be built into walls or constructed without basins or pools that collect water.