Dry deck fountains are a common decorative element in any modern city. They are installations that provide experiences of enjoyment and surprise wherever they are installed. In addition, they create a refreshing atmosphere and become a meeting point.
There are several reasons why dry deck fountains have become a trend. Firstly, they are a multifunctional solution, as they allow different uses of the same space — when the fountain is turned off, you can walk on it. And they also encourage the enjoyment of public space. Here we analyse what a dry deck fountain is and what sort of possibilities it offers nowadays.
What is a dry deck fountain
Dry deck fountains are an ornamental solution that incorporates different water effects such as jets, appearing —when activated— vertically from an underground vessel. In turn, these jets can incorporate elements such as combinations of light, music and speed, as well as appear in different sequences, generating eye-catching choreographies through vertical jets. Generally, this type of installation allows interactions with these water sets — especially children, but not only. Dry deck fountains can also be differentiated by their use: either day or night. During the day it is a space for fun and with a refreshing effect, and at night it becomes a water and light show.
As an ornamental solution, dry deck fountains are increasingly familiar in cities for passers-by. They are also multipurpose, because when dry deck fountains are not active, the ground remains dry. Thus, they are also called walkable fountains: when they are switched off, you can walk on them (extending the pedestrian and functional space, e.g. for cultural activities, terraces, and so on). Similarly, it is possible to design a dry deck fountain that allows cars to drive over it.
Sites for dry deck fountains
Dry deck fountains are mainly found in outdoor spaces, specifically in gathering places such as parks, gardens or squares. This sort of fountain is designed with the aim of creating a fun area for the whole family, with an emphasis on children’s pleasure by creating a playful and refreshing area — in a way, replacing other aquatic facilities such as swimming pools.
If the dry deck fountain is installed as a public initiative in a city, this facility must be designed and installed so that the ground is resistant enough. The ground must therefore be resistant to the passage of users, and potentially vehicles. In addition, water treatment systems must be taken into account to ensure water quality and hygiene at all times.
Benefits of a dry deck fountain
It establishes spaces where leisure and citizen participation around water are promoted. By means of sensors and variations in the sequences of the jets, a dynamic and interactive experience is generated for children and young people.
Multifunctional recreation. While the dry deck fountain in action presents the water jets as a leisure element, the off fountain can be used as a pavement for dry activities.
Protection against vandalism, as all components are protected under the floor.
By installing maintenance and water treatment equipment you can ensure users’ safety.
Sustainability, through resource optimisation systems that avoid wasting resources, such as the wind sensor to regulate the height of the ornamental effects or even turn off the fountain if weather conditions so require.
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