Splash And Spectacles""Water Fountains
Water fountains always have in them a unique element that simply makes them stand out among other water features. Fountains are often acknowledged for their ability to induce serenity in the surroundings where they are situated. They can simply serve as interior or exterior decors, or simply as bird hang outs in the form of a flowing birdbaths. Regardless of their specific functions and structures, one thing is for sure, these pieces would be used and improved over and over.
From as far back as 3000 BC fountains have frequently appeared throughout history. In ancient Egypt, the use of these water features were documented through their tomb paintings, while in early Persian history they were utilized to symbolically represent paradise. Meanwhile, ancient Romans and Greeks utilized wall fountain and floor fountain pieces as their official public baths and drinking stations, while in China where large piazzas were made, sculptured fountains were used as centerpieces. In this regard, it cannot be denied that fountains play a significant role in the development of ancient civilizations as they become the most important sources of water to cultivate their lands and where people usually get their fill of drinking water.
Water fountains function with the help of gravity and this power could be facilitated with aid of three important fountain parts: the reservoir, pump and fountain head. All fountains have a reservoir from which they draw their water and to which the water flows back, creating an enclosed circuit. The pump is the one responsible for moving the water through its spinning impeller, which at accelerated speed of spinning causes a centrifugal force that forces the water out of the pump. The water forced from the pump eventually goes out into the fountain head where it is sprinkled through a nozzle towards the outside structure of this water feature and is then drained back into the reservoir.
Fountains come in differing forms and sizes; some of which could be used indoor or outdoors, while some are utilized for residential or commercial areas. The smallest of them all are designed for tabletops. A floor fountain is a freestanding feature often used as a statement feature in place of sculptures both for indoor and outdoor areas. Wall fountains, as their name connotes, are wall-mounted pieces. Garden fountains on the other hand are larger and are commonly used as centerpieces for large outdoor spaces and may take the forms of sculpted topiary and series of connected pools.
Using a fountain has many known health and wellness benefits. A simple indoor wall fountain could actually become a decorative feature and a source of pleasure at the same time. The tranquil and relaxing sound of flowing water could easily provide relaxation and comfort, and could reduce stress even while in urban setting. These water features could humidify and add moisture to a dry room, thereby cleaning the air you breathe and serve as drinking sources for pets.
Generally, water fountains are legendary pieces that are continuously innovated through the years. Back in the ancient times until today, these fixtures remain as one of the most essential water structures created by man. Nonetheless, their differing purposes rightfully hails them to become one of the most multifunctional ornamental features. No wonder, many commercial and residential places are filled with these water features.
Among many water features we are aware of, water fountains are probably the most appreciated. This is because of their distinct qualities that easily make them stand out among the crowd. A floor fountain for instance could easily become a stand alone feature that becomes the centerpiece of a piazza or a small garden. An indoor wall fountain on the other hand could easily transform a lifeless wall into the focal point inside the home.
Published July 29th, 2010
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