Courtyard Fountains: Size, Material and Sound Reflection
A fountain in the courtyard creates atmosphere and brings movement to the space. However, particularly in enclosed or partially covered courtyards, practical questions arise: What size suits the available space? Which material harmonises with the architecture? And how do you prevent the splashing from becoming too loud due to the walls? Anyone who clarifies these points in advance avoids disappointment and enjoys the fountain permanently.
The Right Size for the Courtyard
The fountain size depends on the courtyard area and ceiling height. As a rule of thumb: the diameter of the fountain basin should be approximately one tenth of the shortest courtyard side. For a courtyard measuring 4 by 6 metres, that would be 40 centimetres basin diameter. Higher water columns or multi-tiered models additionally require space above. In courtyards with more than three metres clear height, Fountains and Water Columns may also be 150 to 180 centimetres high without appearing overwhelming. Lower spaces require flatter bowls or wall fountains.
Material: Natural Stone, Concrete or Metal
Natural stone such as granite, marble or sandstone integrates harmoniously into historic courtyards and ages gracefully. Granite is frost-resistant and easy to maintain, marble more sensitive to acid and frost. Concrete offers creative freedom, can be coloured and cast into modern shapes. Metal, such as corten steel or bronze, provides contemporary accents and develops a characteristic patina over time. All materials should have smooth surfaces so that algae and limescale can be removed more easily.
Sound Reflection in Enclosed Courtyards
In courtyards with smooth walls of plaster, glass or clinker brick, sound reflects more strongly than in open gardens. The splashing becomes louder and more reverberant. To dampen this, a low drop height helps: water falling only 10 to 20 centimetres produces considerably less noise than a stream from one metre height. The flow rate can also be regulated via the pump output. Many Garden Fountains offer continuously adjustable pumps between 200 and 800 litres per hour.
Acoustic Design Through Material Selection
The surface onto which the water falls significantly influences the sound. Soft splashing occurs when water falls onto water or onto porous stones. Hard materials such as polished granite or metal produce brighter, clearer tones. Anyone wishing to dampen the sound further can use textile elements such as sun sails or climbing plants on the walls in the courtyard. These absorb part of the reflection and make the overall sound softer.
Technical Equipment and Water Circulation
Every courtyard fountain requires a circulation pump, a power connection and a collection basin. The pump should be at least 30 centimetres below the water surface to minimise running noise. A filter keeps leaves and dirt away. In courtyards without floor drainage, a closed circuit with regular water monitoring is recommended. Evaporation is compensated weekly, more frequently in summer. In winter, the system must be drained or covered in a frost-proof manner.
Placement and Sight Lines
The fountain should be visible from the main viewpoints but not block passages and seating areas. Central placement appears representative, a position against the wall saves space. Ensure sufficient distance from windows so that splash water does not permanently dampen the facade. A minimum distance of 80 centimetres from the wall is advisable. Lighting from below or from the side showcases the fountain in the evening and emphasises the water movement.
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