Outdoor Fountains

Dating back to Greek and Roman civilizations, fountains have been a refreshing part of human life for centuries. Beautiful examples of stone and marble fountains are found throughout Europe and the Middle East in public squares, paradise gardens, and the courts of wealthy homes. They were an important part of the culture, providing fresh water for drinking and washing. By the end of the 19th century, mechanical pumps largely replaced the use of gravity and siphons to create babbling streams and shooting sprays of water.

Today, fountains are primarily decorative, although the negative ions produced by moving water are believed to have a purifying effect on the surrounding air. Thus, the refreshing aspects of this functional decor are real, and help you to create your own modern oasis.

There are hundreds of gorgeous options at hayneedle.com. Here are a few considerations to help you choose the perfect style for your space.

Indoor or Outdoor

Many models can be used indoors and outdoors. Decide on your intended location as a key first step. It’s wise to consider if you want to enjoy your water feature outside or inside exclusively, or if you would like a style that is more versatile. Some people like to move their fount to a new location inside or outside the house seasonally.

Wall-Mount or Free-Standing

When considering where to place a fountain, don’t forget about walls and other vertical spaces like fences, parapets, or pool enclosures. Many styles can be mounted on indoor and outdoor walls.

Full-size or Tabletop

Tabletop styles are versatile options. They can be used in small spaces, indoors, on patios, or in the garden. Full size models are a great choice for adding interest in large spaces or used as an impressive focal point.

Materials and Styles

Fountains are made of many materials, including resin, fiberglass, marble, metal, stone, and ceramic. The style you choose may influence what materials are used. Traditional and birdbath designs are often made of stone, resin, and/or fiberglass. Modern or contemporary styles are often metal, marble, or ceramic.

Power Source

All fountains require a power source to operate the pump. Additional power is sometimes required for lighted models. Many styles are solar-powered, while some plug into a normal 110V outlet. Consider your power source where you plan the location of your home’s new fount.