Fountains and water features: Their role as design elements in public spaces

The author examines fountains and water basins, focusing in particular on their function as design elements. The main emphasis is placed on features in public open spaces. The development and functions of these design elements over the past centuries are highlighted. The general significance of water is also discussed. In describing the historical development of fountains and water basins, reference is made to etymology and definitions, as well as to the influence of mythology. The two types of fountain - drinking fountains and recirculating fountains - are addressed thematically, and the different construction methods are described in detail. Furthermore, water basins and their various forms are discussed, as well as the choice of a suitable location to optimally position water features in public spaces. The materials and plant species particularly suited to fountain construction are also examined. Research into selected features in Vienna, including the 'Vienna Water World', was conducted through explorations of the city. The results are recorded in the form of a photographic documentation accompanied by textual descriptions.