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.

It has been well presented that from as far back as 300 BC fountains have been already in existence. In ancient Egypt, the use of fountains were apparent as seen from their tomb paintings, while in Persia during that same period, these water features were considered as symbolic representations of paradise. Romans and Greeks on the other hand used both wall fountain and floor fountain as public bath areas and drinking stations and in China, where extensive courtyards were built, fountain sculptures were assigned as decorations. Generally, fountains play a significant role in establishing ancient civilizations as they were considered as essential sources of water.

Water fountains work through the power of gravity and the activity of a fountain is performed by three important 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 moves the water coming from the reservoir through its spinning impeller that runs at an accelerated speed, which then causes the centrifugal force that pushes 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 are engineered to be placed on tabletops. Floor fountain is a stand-alone water feature that is often utilized as a statement piece either for wide indoor or outdoor spaces. Wall fountains, as their name connotes, are wall-mounted pieces. On the other hand, garden fountains are usually large water features used as focal designs of wide outdoor spaces like piazzas and courtyards that may come in the forms of sculpted topiary or series of connected pools.

Placing a fountain actually provides many benefits especially in terms of health and well being. A simple indoor wall fountain could actually become a decorative feature and a source of pleasure at the same time. The smooth and soothing flow of water from the fountain could easily reduce stress and provide comfort and relaxation, making such water feature a great addition for homes in urban spaces. Similarly, these water features have the ability to humidify and add moisture to rooms, which sanitizes the air you breath and in some instances also function as sources of drinking water for pets.

All in all, water fountains are renowned water features that are consistently innovated and improved through the years. From the ancient times to date, they emerged probably as one of the most important man-made structures. Nevertheless, their many purposes enabled these pieces to arise as one of the most important multifunctional decorative features today. It isn't surprising to know that many commercial and residential owners prefer using these water features to highlight their spaces.