Amazing Water Fountains...and How You Can Have Them at Home

Water fountains have long been important elements of society. The ancient Romans made fountains an integral part of their culture and they were often places of gathering and relaxation. Some Roman fountains are even still in use today, thousands of years later, like the Italian fountain to the right (thanks to NeatlySliced for the great photo!). These ancient fountains are often stunningly preserved, a sign that many have been in constant use and maintenance for centuries.

More modern fountains still incorporate Roman and other classical themes into their design (Grecian urns are popular, too), creating beautiful fountains that retain a timeless elegance, like this fountain in Louisville, Kentucky.

Photo by Cory Thorne

Classical styles for fountains at home are very popular as well. Corinthian wall fountains emulate the ones found in many ancient buildings. They're ideal for making a statement in an entrance way or in a garden, framed by plants. An elegant urn or tiered fountain can make a great centerpiece for a garden, or an accent piece in an otherwise dull or empty corner.

Since classical designs have a timeless elegance to them, they match well with many decor styles. If you want to make a truly daring statement, try pairing a classical fountain with more modern or contemporary designs or furniture. Done well, the juxtaposition will make the fountain stand out and add a new level of depth to your interior design. To avoid have a mixed period design look junky, you should choose a fountain that complements the colors and other materials in the room. Personally, I think classical fountains look best in white or earthen colors (for urns and jar styles).

Lighting is a great way to establish a mood and enhance a design.

Photo by Jeffuwo

In daytime, this fountain might not seem so stunning, but at night there's that extra bit of magic around it. Lighted fountains are popular in public spaces as they help make them accessible after dark, but also make a unique statement. A lighted fountain can do the same for your home, garden, or office even. Below are just a few examples of fountain for indoors and out doors that you can consider adding to your environment.

The soothing glow from a lighted fountain can really help you de-stress at the end of the day! Add it to a den or quiet place that you want to make your relaxing oasis.

If you have an pond, lights under or near the water make great accent additions as well. Beautifully lit water in a very pleasing sight to see! Lights can also be added to fountains that don't come with lights already. You can add different colored bulbs as well to achieve different effects.

If you choose to add some lighting elements to your pond or garden, consider using solar lights. These help you eliminate electrical cords, reduce electrical usage, and give you added flexibility in their positioning. During the day, their solar cells soak up enough energy to keep your ponds and fountains glowing beautifully through the night!

Not all stunning fountains have to be made from the latest high tech materials or have a design that sets them apart from the rest. Some of the greatest fountains take their cues from nature and incorporate that element into their design. You might not choose a fountain that's quite as bold as the green giant found in Austria, but you might be looking for one that brings to mind natural falls and lakes, like the stunning Fulmer Falls in Pennsylvania.

Photo by Ram-Man/Wikipedia

Achieving the natural look of stone and rock water fountains and water falls is easy. It's also possible to bring the outside in with these fountains placed inside your home, office, or any other space you may choose. Fountains with natural elements to them heighten their soothing benefits. They help to take you out of your busy mindset and back towards a more healthful balance.

If you already have a fountain indoors, but want to add some more natural elements to it, consider adding some plants near the fountain or some river stones to the basin. The river stones can also be rearranged until the sound of the water moving over them is most pleasing to you! Look for fountains made of stone, slate, and use earthen colors.

Water fountains have long been a form of expression. Power, money, ability, artistry - these are just a few of the sentiments that have been shared with others through the design of water fountains. More often than not, these fountains are totally unique! Take a look at just a few more amazing fountains around the world.

Photos by Bill Liao and WVJazzman


Photos by Mambo1935 and Bobo D. Clown

These great fountains all make a statement, whether it's a feat of artistry that makes you wonder how it was done, or a symbol for a town (in this case Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany). And some fountains are deeply personal, says Yoda fountain.

Creating your own custom water fountain is easy to do. Some fountains will let you modify their design a bit, allowing you to add lights, choose coloring and materials, and decide whether it'll be an indoor or outdoor fountain.

But if you want something truly unique, consider creating a custom fountain from the ground up. It's easier to do than you think, and you can create a fountain that fits your budget. Take a look at a some examples that have been made for both private and public spaces!

These fountains all make a statement! Your fountain should too! Here are a few tips on creating your custom fountain:

1. Choose colors that are your favorite, have special meaning to you, or are particularly soothing.

2. Choose a fountain that is the right size for your space and decide if it'll be a floor or wall fountain, or a waterfall.

3. Design the fountain to complement your decor so it's a natural part of your environment.

4. Use your fountain to enhance your corporate or public space, or create an oasis at home with a home spa or private garden.