Fountain - design element with a history
A fountain is one of the oldest design elements in gardens in human history and, interestingly, also one of the most modern. For thousands of years, people have used the element of water to structure spaces, create atmosphere and enrich outdoor life.
The fountain also plays a special role in today's garden design. It combines nature, design and technology to create a harmonious overall experience that transforms the garden into a lively oasis.
Origin and history of the fountain
Fountains have accompanied mankind since its beginnings. Originally used to supply water, they later became meeting places, symbols and works of art. In many gardens, fountains were an expression of prosperity and culture, and even today they can still be found in front of impressive villas and castles. Here in Switzerland, too, fountains are part of our surroundings everywhere.
Today, the focus is no longer on the extraction of water, but on the effect of the water itself: its sound, its movement, its surface, its ability to reflect light and enliven spaces. In our gardens, too, a fountain as a design element creates a special ambience and invites you to enjoy the gentle rippling and find peace.
Fountains are therefore a piece of cultural history and at the same time a timeless design element that can play a special role in any garden.
Classic design concepts for fountains
Classic fountains are modelled on historical examples that can be found in many important places in Switzerland today. They are made of natural materials, often have clear forms and a calm, harmonious appearance.
Typical features of classic fountains are
- Natural stone or stone look
- Round or square basins
- Gentle watercourses instead of powerful fountains
- Symmetrical arrangement in the garden
- Reference to nature through plants, gravel or green spaces
These fountains have a timeless and elegant side. Their splashing creates an atmosphere reminiscent of chic hotel courtyards or gardens in the south of Italy.
Modern design concepts for fountains
Modern, partly ready-made fountains, as you can find in our partner online shop Amadeo Ambiente are characterised by clear lines, innovative materials and architectural forms. They are less playful, but more precise and purist.
Typical features of modern fountains are
- Stainless steel, concrete or similar materials
- Geometric shapes such as columns, cuboids or bowls
- Smooth surfaces and minimalist designs
- Partially integrated LED lighting
- Water features with clear lines instead of natural shapes
Modern fountains are like works of art. They set accents, create structure and fit perfectly into contemporary gardens, terraces or minimalist outdoor areas. They can be integrated into many different design concepts.
The special effect of water in the garden
Water is an element that has always fascinated people. A fountain brings movement, sound and reflection to the garden. These are qualities that no other design element offers in this form.
Why fountains in the garden are so special:
- SoundThe soft splashing has a calming effect and creates a natural soundscape.
- MovementWater brings dynamism to the garden and revitalises even quiet areas.
- Light: The sun's rays are reflected on the surface of the water and create lively effects.
- AtmosphereFountains create atmosphere - from meditative to festive.
- Reference to natureWater attracts birds, insects and other animals and promotes biodiversity.
- StructureA fountain can be a centrepiece, transition or accent in the garden.
A fountain appeals to all the senses and turns the garden into a place of experience and a living space outside the walls.
Fountains as part of an overall concept
A fountain only unfolds its full effect when it is not viewed as an isolated object, but as an integral part of a well thought-out garden design. In modern garden design, the combination of different elements plays a central role. It is about the combination of materials, heights, plants, paths, light and water, which should harmonise with each other and create a coherent overall picture.
A fountain can also be perfectly combined with other design elements such as planters, garden furniture, fondue bars and fire columns. Plants that love water can frame the fountain and enhance its effect. Suitable lighting sets the scene in the evening and creates an atmospheric ambience. In combination with a watercourse or a pond, a continuous water concept is created that gives the garden depth and character. In this way, the fountain becomes not just a decorative object, but a unifying element.
Technology and components
Depending on the model, a fountain consists of several technical elements that determine its function. Various important components are required for a continuous flow of water and a beautiful effect:
- Pump: ensures the water flow
- Basin or reservoir: Stores the water
- Water outlet: determines the sound and shape of the watercourse
- Filterskeeps the water clean
- Lighting: also sets the scene for the fountain in the evening
Modern fountains are often energy-efficient and easy to maintain. Many models work with closed water circuits so that no water is lost.
Fountains and pool construction - water as a unifying element
In modern garden design, water is often combined or used in several forms. A fountain can harmonise perfectly with other water elements such as a pool; both elements complement each other and create a unified water experience.
Wells can:
- serve as a harbinger of a pool
- act as a calm counterpart to the large expanse of water
- serve as an acoustic supplement
- Design the transition between the pool area and the garden
At egli jona, we are professionals in pool and fountain construction and integrate different types of fountains as part of a comprehensive water and garden concept.
Your partner for fountains, garden design and pool construction
At egli jona, we offer a variety of design concepts, drawing on a carefully selected range of garden fountains that includes classic and modern designs. The products combine high-quality materials, sophisticated technology and aesthetic design.
Fountains - the offer from egli jona
- Diversity on fountains made of different materials
- Design expertisefrom classic to modern
- IntegrationFountains as part of an overall concept
- Pool constructionWater solutions from a single source, from the well to the pool
- Counselling on options and costs: customised planning for gardens, patios and outdoor areas
We see water as a design element that characterises spaces and creates atmospheres. Together, we create solutions that combine style and function, whether you want a small garden fountain or a comprehensive water project.
Fountains - the centrepiece of a lively garden design
A fountain is far more than just a decorative detail. It is a design element that combines water, sound, light and movement and gives the garden a special emotional quality. A fountain creates atmosphere, promotes tranquillity, enlivens the space and appeals to all the senses. It can be the centrepiece of a garden or a quiet companion in the background, harmoniously rounding off the overall picture.
In today's garden design, the fountain plays a central role because it achieves what no other element can do in this form: It brings nature and design together, creates structure and lightness at the same time, combines technology with emotion and transforms every outdoor area into a place of experience. If you want to turn your garden into a real oasis of well-being, choosing a fountain is a design element that is timeless, versatile and deeply effective.
Discover the world of fountains from egli jona and bring the soothing play of water into your garden. Contact us today and together we will find the design that suits your style and your outdoor area.
