As our commercial water design series continues, we explore the option of adding ice to water elements. We hope you’ll be inspired to utilize the incredible characteristics of water in your future projects. As you decide which water element best fits your architectural needs, you can explore all our options including Creating An Atmosphere, Visual Characteristics of Water, and The Beautiful Sights and Sounds of Water.
An ice fountain sculpture is a unique way to utilize a fountain for year-round value.
As appealing as architectural water elements are, they provide a unique challenge and opportunity for parts of the world that have temperatures below zero for many months of the year. Believe it or not water can be artistically transformed into a ice sculpture. Here in the great north, Minnesotans embrace the cold and all that comes with it. Ice sculptures have a unique visual element that is spectacular and grand, making year-round use of a fountain in regions where seasonal temperatures vary by more than 120 degrees!
Ice Fountain Sculptures Achieve a Mesmerizing Effect
When a fine water is sprayed over a decorative, lattice-type structure during freezing temperatures, it will form hanging icicles. The system is fairly simple and is similar to snow making equipment. The icicle formations are visually appealing and when lit create wonderful, mesmerizing illuminations. This type of fountain should be designed in an area that does not have a lot of foot traffic, because the fine water spray can drift and ice up walk ways causing them to be slippery. An ice fountain sculpture is a unique way to utilize a fountain for year-round value.
Have questions about getting started with an ice or water feature for your business or organization? Contact us today to speak with one of our experts.
This Water Design Series is by Greg Stoks, Principal at Commercial Aquatic Engineering. The purpose is to add useful content to CAE social media venues to help readers better understand design considerations when utilizing water as an architectural element. Read more about this Commercial Water Design Series.
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