Outdoor Fountain

The sound of a murmuring outdoor fountain can bring relief on the most sultry of summer days. They provide a focal point for your lawn or garden, creating an outdoor room. Birds twitter as they bathe, butterflies stop by for a drink, fish may glide in the larger ones, and the stress of the day melts away in the ripples.One of the first decisions to make is whether you want a wall fountain or a free-standing fountain. The advantage of a wall fountain is that it takes up no ground space. The disadvantage, of course, is that it is relatively heavy and needs to be well secured to a sturdy wall.Your next decision will be about size. Fountains are available in sizes to suit a tabletop or a public park. If you choose an outdoor fountain that is too large, the space will seem cramped and the fountain will overpower its surroundings. A wall fountain that is too small won't have the proper impact, and a small free-standing outdoor fountain will get lost in the garden. However, several small fountains scattered throughout a garden creates a delightful play of sight and sound.Your third decision is both the most difficult and the most fun. What style do you prefer? There are richly ornate fountains with angels, cherubs and nymphs. There are classic fountains, perhaps fluted or carved with acanthus or another classical motif. Natural fountains seem to be made of rough uncarved rock. And there are sleek modern and Asian styles. Some of these are as simple as a ball on a pedestal, and the water doesn't spray up, but glides smoothly over the ball.