Garden Fountains
Garden fountains are without question, the ultimate garden experience. Anytime you think of a world-class garden that you have seen or been impressed by, it almost certainly will include some sort of fountain or other water element.
Whether it is in Italy, Japan, Spain or any other country, everyone around the world understands that a beautiful garden should also be a place of relaxation and meditation. And not just visually relaxing, but every bit as important, if not more so .... calming and soothing to the ear. Nothing accomplishes that more than water in motion.
The Japanese, especially, seem to have a deep understanding of how important water elements are because they blend it so magically with the calm of their beautiful and serene gardens. Their gardens immediately bring to mind Koi ponds and the fascinating art of Feng Shui.
Below is a great example of how water elements, including lots of various types of fountains, can make the difference between 'just a beautiful garden' and one that is truly spectacular and world-class.
Click twice on the arrow below for some awe-inspiring shots of the fabulous Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania, which include several types of water features and fountains.
Fountain Designs and Materials
The types of fountains today are almost endless. They include every material and every design imaginable. From indoor to outdoor, floor to wall, tabletop to pedestal; you will find them in virtually every natural and man-made substance known to man. Some of the most popular are natural stone, brass, copper, etched glass, slate and stainless steel.
Here's some examples of each type.
If you have a large estate or lot, there are some especially beautiful fountains for ponds and lakes. On smaller lots, they can also be very attractive in swimming pools or koi ponds.
Something new to me and absolutely charming is a "rain chain". You add them to your gutter system and they become linked funnels that channel the rain gently from the roof to the ground, sparkling and bubbling as it flows.
A favorite of mine is a small pedestal-type garden fountain made of either mosaic tiles or beautifully patterned ceramic. They can bring a delightful and unexpected burst of color and fun to an otherwise rather mundane rock or ground cover garden.
How to Choose the Right Style of Fountain
Contemporary
Stainless, slate, or maybe a fountain sculpture that can double as a piece of art would all work well in a contemporary setting. Cascading, flat wall or free-standing fountains of a very simple "tablet" design are also naturals for contemporary homes.
Eclectic (combines several styles and bold colors)
Copper and granite would make very good choices for a sophisticated home of mixed styles. Mosaic is also charming in this type of setting.
Asian(Feng Shui)
Stone, bamboo, ceramic, slate would all look great, and there are many specific styles for Asian designs that will perfectly complete the exotic look and feel of your fountain and landscape.
Traditional
Classic style fountains of stone or resin are great for traditional homes. Tiered garden fountains or wall fountains with scroll work or 18th century style designs with lions or gargoyles for example, look really great with traditional homes. Greek mythology or Italian themes are also perfect.
No matter what your budget, what your style, or what your space, nothing says style, sophistication and serenity more than a garden fountain.
By Sharon Langston
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