Stainless Water Fountain
The Bell Family’s Modern Oasis: A Courtyard Transformation by Exterior Worlds Landscape Design
In 2016, the Bell family sought to transform their Houston, Texas home into a sanctuary of modern elegance and tranquility. They turned to Exterior Worlds Landscape Design, a renowned firm established in 1987, known for its meticulous attention to detail and innovative landscape solutions. The project focused on revitalizing the central courtyard, making it a captivating centerpiece visible from every part of their home.
The Vision: Creating a Modern Focal Point
The Bells envisioned their courtyard as a serene oasis, with a contemporary twist that would complement their home’s architecture. Exterior Worlds designed a stunning modern stainless steel fountain to serve as the courtyard’s focal point. The choice of material was pivotal; the fountain was constructed using marine-grade stainless steel (316), known for its exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion, especially important given the fountain’s daily exposure to water.
The Fountain: A Blend of Modernity and Nature
The stainless steel fountain, sleek and reflective, stands as the courtyard’s centerpiece. Its modern design is not only visually striking but also seamlessly integrates with the surrounding architecture. A unique feature of the fountain is the succulent planted atop it. This touch of greenery adds a natural element, contrasting beautifully with the metallic finish and enhancing the overall aesthetic.
The choice of 316 stainless steel ensures that the fountain maintains its pristine appearance over time, withstanding Houston’s variable weather conditions and continuous interaction with water. This attention to material quality reflects Exterior Worlds’ commitment to creating long-lasting, high-quality installations.
Surrounding Elements: Low-Maintenance Beauty
Surrounding the fountain, artificial turf was installed to maintain a lush, green appearance with minimal upkeep. This choice aligns with the Bell family’s preference for a low-maintenance landscape that still exudes natural beauty. The artificial turf not only complements the fountain but also provides a practical solution for busy homeowners who desire a beautiful yard without the intensive care natural grass requires.
To introduce a warm, natural element into the modern courtyard, Exterior Worlds installed ipe decking on the porch. Ipe, a hardwood known for its durability and rich color, adds warmth and texture to the space. This decking creates a seamless transition from the indoor living areas to the outdoor courtyard, inviting the family and their guests to step outside and enjoy the serene environment.
Enhancing the Ambiance: Irrigation and Lighting
To ensure the courtyard remains vibrant and welcoming, a comprehensive irrigation system was installed. This system supports the succulent on the fountain and any other plantings around the courtyard, maintaining their health and beauty with minimal effort.
Strategic lighting plays a crucial role in showcasing the courtyard’s features. Exterior Worlds carefully positioned lights to highlight the fountain and ipe decking, creating a mesmerizing effect as the light reflects off the stainless steel and accentuates the textures of the hardwood. This lighting not only enhances the courtyard’s beauty at night but also adds a layer of safety and security.
A Courtyard for All Seasons
The transformation of the Bell family’s courtyard is a testament to Exterior Worlds’ expertise in combining modern design with functional landscaping. The stainless steel fountain serves as a stunning centerpiece, visible from all angles of the home, creating a unified and tranquil atmosphere. The use of durable materials like marine-grade stainless steel and ipe wood ensures the courtyard will remain a beautiful and inviting space for years to come.
Since its inception in 1987, Exterior Worlds Landscape Design has been dedicated to crafting outdoor spaces that blend beauty and practicality. The Bell family’s project exemplifies this philosophy, offering a modern retreat that is both visually captivating and effortlessly maintained. This courtyard transformation not only enhances the home’s aesthetic appeal but also provides a peaceful escape right in the heart of Houston.
