Water Fountains Can Transform Your Outdoor Space ~
Visually, Acoustically and Even Mentally.
Photos courtesy of Van Liew’s Home & Garden
With so many styles and sizes to choose from, selecting the right fountain for your yard can feel overwhelming. From classic tiered designs to modern minimalist features, fountains come in materials ranging from stone to metal, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every backyard. To help navigate the wide array of options, we sought insight from local experts who have shaped Kansas City’s fountain landscape for generations, turning to the fountain experts at Van Liew’s Home & Garden. Since 1927, they have been pioneers in the decorative landscape industry and have over 150 working fountains on display. Granddaughter Michelle Van Liew Smith shared her expertise on deciding which fountain fulfills your needs.
The Role of the Fountain
VAN LIEWS: Before choosing a fountain, consider the role you want it to play. Will it provide tranquil sound, act as a focal point of beauty, or support birds and garden wildlife? Deciding this first will ensure you’re selecting the right style of fountain.
Space & Scale
VAN LIEWS: In smaller areas, select a fountain that complements the surroundings without overwhelming the space or splashing onto nearby patios and walkways on windy days. In larger landscapes, keep in mind that fountains often appear smaller once installed, so choosing a slightly larger scale fountain can help maintain visual balance and presence.
The Statement
VAN LIEWS: Consider whether you want your fountain to make a statement or quietly complement the space. Would you like a focal point that adds architectural interest from a distance, or do you prefer a more subtle design that blends naturally into the surroundings?
Choosing a Material
VAN LIEWS: Kansas City’s fluctuating winter temperatures create repeated freeze-thaw cycles that can be hard on outdoor fountains. Selecting a weather-resistant material is essential. Concrete and fiber-stone fountains typically hold up best in our Midwest climate, while pottery and resin styles should be brought indoors for the winter. With proper winterization – draining and covering – concrete and fiber-stone fountains can remain outdoors year-round.
Texture & Movement
VAN LIEWS: The sound of a fountain plays an important role in shaping the atmosphere of your outdoor space. Subtle designs offer a peaceful, soothing trickle, ideal for quiet gardens or patios. More dynamic fountains create a fuller, more energetic water sounds, which can add drama and help mask surrounding traffic or neighborhood noise.
Power Sources
VAN LIEWS: When choosing a fountain, it is important to consider the power source. While solar technology continues to improve, solar pumps are generally best suited for very small water features and may provide inconsistent performance during extended cloudy periods. For larger fountains and reliable water flow, an electrical source is essential. Electric pumps offer stronger, more consistent circulation. For this reason, we focus on electric fountains designed to deliver dependable performance.
Maintenance
VAN LIEWS: Proper placement and routine care help fountains operate at their best. Most fountains require water to be added frequently to maintain the correct level – especially during windy conditions or periods of extreme heat. Positioning the fountain where a garden hose is easily accessible makes refilling easier. It is also best to avoid placing fountains directly beneath trees, as falling leaves and debris can clog the pump and reduce performance, leading to more frequent cleaning and more maintenance.
