Have you noticed that in a lot of ancient monuments and palaces, water features are almost always present? While some were incorporated for cultural reasons, sometimes it was for elegance or to add functionality to building design.
Pros of using water features in your design:
Outdoor waterfalls are mostly for aesthetic and sensory purposes, promoting a peaceful environment with its sound. They are often constructed using natural stone, rocks, or other durable materials that can withstand outdoor weather conditions.
Getty Center in Los Angeles incorporated an outdoor waterfall to their design using rough-cut stones which blends in seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The waterfall helps cool the surrounding area by reducing the ambient temperature.
Reflective pools are still bodies of water that reflect the surrounding environment, adding serenity to a building's design. They are used in modern and contemporary designs to create a minimalist aesthetic, while in traditional designs, was ornately decorated with sculptures or fountains.
Marina Bay Sands in Singapore features a stunning rooftop infinity pool that overlooks the city skyline. The design feature of this pool uses glass to provide unobstructed views of the surrounding area while also cooling it by reducing the ambient temperature
Water gardens are an excellent way to incorporate water features into a building's design while creating a sustainable environment and can be designed to recycle and reuse water, reducing water usage, while also providing a natural habitat for wildlife.
The building features a living roof with a water garden which provides a natural habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.
Incorporating natural water bodies such as rivers, lakes, or oceans into building design can create a unique architectural sensation and consequently enhances the sensory experience of the space.
This iconic building was built on a harbor with the water playing a significant role in the building's overall design. The reflection of water on the building's exterior creates a visually stunning effect, while the ocean breeze provides natural cooling.