Cooling Fountains
I’ve always had a thing for fountains. They’re beautiful, they make gorgeous sounds (that drown out all other noise) and they always seem like a lovely oasis in an otherwise hectic world.
They have practical benefits as well. The Moors brought fountain work to Spain in the 8th century, and it’s become somewhat of an art form there. You can find them in every public square and private garden across the country. Here’s why: between shade and a bit of running water, you can create temperatures up to 40 degrees farenheit below the outside temperature in the sun. In the scorching desert heat, that’s quite the improvement. But you don’t have to live in the desert to take advantage of this cooling effect. Perhaps you have a side of the house that gets constantly hot in the afternoon? Try some trees or vines and a small fountain. You’ll be surprised at the difference it makes.
Of course, you can always go for a big statement fountain too…
