Homes & Gardens The Romance of a Garden Fountain Even in Cold February article and photography by Rindy O’Brien
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ebruary is the month of romance. We dream of roses and romantic notions, often ones that have been instilled in us through the movies. The 1954 movie Three Coins in the Fountain, which won two Oscars, is a classic example. In the film, a fountain holds the fortunes of three young women in Rome seeking adventure and, of course, romance. Fountains play a special role in our gardens as well. They not only provide a visual focus, but also produce some healthy side effects. The sight and sounds of running water help the body and mind relax. There is an amazing calming effect as the body takes in the rhythmic sounds of the water. As this happens, the body increases the level of serotonin, which results in a better mood and energized feelings. So, it is a natural that we associate fountains with romance. Even if you aren’t the romantic type, fountains are considered an important part of the practice of Feng Shui, which aims to create harmony by balancing the five elements of earth, metal, fire, wood, and water. Different types of fountains bring together several of the elements, combining water with metal, wood, or ceramic.
In the past twelve years, garden enthusiasts have seen water fountains become an essential part of high-end landscaped gardens, and the trend has shifted from outdoor gardens to inside fountains. Charles Hudman, President of Surroundings on Capitol Hill, reports strong enthusiasm for fountains from his landscape clients. In fact, it is Charles’ magnificent fountain at the corner of 11th Street and East Capitol at Lincoln Park that sparked my interest in finding out more about fountains in winter.
A Fountain of Ice and Beauty
The three-tiered cast iron fountain at the corner of Lincoln Park is a favorite wintertime scene by many who pass by Surroundings.
The beauty of the ice formations shimmers in the winter light.
Charles calls his fountain his personal weather vane or weatherpredictor. He says he wakes up each morning and looks out his window to see what the fountain isforecasting for the day. With the recent cold weather, the fountain has turned into a spectacular display of ice. Every day Hill residents stop to marvel at its beauty, and many whip out their cell phones to snap a few pictures. “I think it is really great that the fountain is getting so much attention this winter,”said Charles. Charles, who counts the U.S. Capitol among his many clients, is a transplant from New Orleans. Back home, capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 133