If you’d like to change the ambience of your outdoor space, a Moroccan Fountain is an excellent idea. Made of soft colours of the desert, they add a relaxing, romantic ambience to any space. Alternatively, you could create one with bright, vibrant colours that are reminiscent of the Moroccan medinas and souks. Although they require electricity, they don’t need to be connected to the mains water supply. You can even make one yourself if you’re confident with basic carpentry skills.
Origins of Moroccan tile
Moroccan tiles are a classic and unique form of art. Originally from ancient Egypt, they’ve come to represent sophistication, power, and wealth. They are associated with high status and are the hallmark of Moroccan private residences. Originating in the 10th century, this tile technique has remained largely unchanged over the centuries. Today, it’s still as intricate and beautiful as it was in the days before the Renaissance.
The process begins with the selection of ceramic tiles. These are usually separated by color. A craftsman, called a rasham, draws shapes on the tiles and tessellates them to create patterns. Then, a stone or iron table is used to cut them. These craftsmen can also use a wide hammer to cut them. The edges of the tiles are cut according to the specifications of the project.
The process is intricate and delicate. The tile cutters must be extremely accurate and can produce up to 400 pieces a day. The cutter uses a tool called a Menqach, which is large and has two sharpened ends. It is an intricate tool that requires meticulous precision to produce finely detailed pieces. The process requires a lot of patience, and an experienced cutter can produce as many as 400 pieces of Moroccan tile in a day.
Techniques
In 2003, artisans from Morocco built a unique fountain for the Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago. The fountain was a gift from the Casablanca Sister City Committee. It represents the ancient Moorish art of cutting handmade terra cotta tiles, known as zellij. Moroccan artisans have continued this technique for centuries and their creations are valued for their beauty and resiliency to extreme weather conditions.
In Morocco, courtyards are known to have a specific balance. The courtyard captures breezes and offers fresh air. The lower portion of the courtyard wall is covered in brightly colored geometric tiles. The upper section is covered in intricately carved plaster and wood. Tiles display the typical characteristics of geometric design, radiating out in interlocking patterns. Interestingly, the tile panels have arbitrary borders that often look cut off.
The tile work of Morocco has been adapted by a variety of places, including Samarkland and Cordova. However, the traditional Zellij style never made its way to the Americas due to the Spanish colonization of the area. Although the tilework is more durable and less expensive than Zellij, it does not compare to the traditional work. A Moroccan fountain can make a stunning feature in a home or garden.
When choosing the tiles, make sure to choose those that are made of clay. Typically, Moroccan tilework features geometric tiles set in a plaster base. Tiles may be inscribed with intricate designs or images. Stencils are often used to transfer designs. Moroccan tile patterns may be more intricate than the designs found in mosaic tiles. They may also incorporate intricate designs that are difficult to recreate in a concrete fountain.
Patterns
A Moroccan Fountain can be an interesting addition to a garden or patio. A Moroccan fountain can change the ambiance of a space by adding an element of romance and relaxation. It can be crafted with the soft colours of the desert, or more vibrant colours inspired by the souks and medinas of Morocco. Fountains can be made in any colour to suit your style and garden. The Moroccan fountains are also easily installed on a patio or outdoor area.
Depending on the style of Moroccan fountain architecture, these can include carved wooden elements, intricately designed tiles, and other elements. Moroccan fountains are often divided into three sections. The lower section is covered with brightly colored geometric tiles, while the top portion is covered with intricately carved plaster or wood. The patterns in Moroccan tiles have common characteristics of geometric design and radiate outward in interlacing shapes. The borders of these panels may look arbitrary and cut off.
The mosaic tiles and other materials used in Moroccan fountains can be made to resemble arabesques. Moroccan tilework has also evolved over the years. During the early ages, there was little choice in colours and patterns, and Zellij tiles did not have the vibrant colors of more recent designs. This design style has become one of the most popular forms of Moroccan architecture, and is widely available for anyone who is looking for an unusual fountain.
Shapes
The traditional style of Moroccan fountains includes the Mouassine Fountain, which is part of a complex of mosques built in the 16th century. Public fountains are a popular tradition in Marrakech, where they began to take on a more monumental character during the Saadian era. Fountains in Moroccan neighborhoods need to be accessible for people to drink and cool off, and these unique structures provide this water source to the local community.
Another way to add color to a fountain is by using tiles. Moroccan design places a premium on color, so choosing simple geometric patterns on terracotta tiles will create an interesting panorama. Brightly colored tiles reflect light and keep the area cooler. If you prefer a neutral color scheme, tile design can be a great way to achieve a Moroccan look without going overboard. Here are some tips to help you get started:
A Moroccan fountain can be the focal point of your garden, or it can be the background to a quiet corner. They can be enhanced with flower pots, garden ornaments, and even a sofa. Moroccan fountains are hand-crafted, so irregularities and surface areas are inevitable. However, these characteristics only add to their appeal. Moroccan fountains are available in various sizes and shapes, and you can order any colour you want!
Cost
Building a Moroccan fountain is easy. This decorative fountain can be the centrepiece of a courtyard or run along a wall. The stone ball at the top of the fountain looks beautiful against the white pebbles. The fountain is often lighted, either within the main column or inside the water pool. A fountain can be placed outside any time of the year. You can choose any colour scheme to complement your décor. The Moroccan fountain is not only a beautiful decorative feature, but it also serves a number of purposes.
The process of building a Moroccan Fountain varies according to size and style. You can choose from large, freestanding fountains, or smaller ones. These fountains are usually handcrafted, and can have irregular surfaces or colours. However, this is part of the charm of these fountains. They are available in a variety of sizes, and you can order them in any colour to match the rest of your decor. The cost of building a Moroccan fountain is relatively low.
A drinking fountain can cost as little as $500 or as much as $1,500 to install. Depending on the location, this may vary, but the total cost of an indoor fountain can be anywhere from $500 to $1,500. If the fountain is installed in a public area, ADA compliance is necessary, it can increase the cost of the fountain. Some other costs include installing a water line to the fountain and taping into the water supply. This is also necessary if you opt for a recessed fountain. Plumbing is another cost factor, and it may be necessary to apply for a permit for the fountain.
Installation
The Zillij Moroccan fountain features a shallow pool surrounded by colorful tiles. It sits outside One Federal Place. Mounir Bensaid, director of the Center Marocaine de Promotion des Exportations, gifted it to the city as a gift to celebrate the country’s 150th anniversary. Bensaid made the announcement of the gift at a recent Ambassador’s dinner. During the ceremony, the fountain was dedicated by Bensaid.
The Zillij fountain is a unique example of traditional Moorish craftsmanship. Its design is made of hand-cut, glazed mosaic tiles. Its creation was coordinated by landscape architects Nimrod Long & Associates. The architect’s work included selecting the colors of the hand-made tiles and arranging them in a geometric pattern. The design also included granite-faced walls and a water curtain. The Fountain of Zillij was dedicated May 15, 2004.
A Moroccan Fountain can transform the atmosphere in your outdoor area. It can create a relaxing and romantic ambiance. Because the fountain is hand-made, irregularities may occur in the surface and shape of the fountain. However, these are all part of its charm. There are many models to choose from and a Moroccan Fountain is sure to suit your home. Most fountains can be ordered in a variety of colours. In addition, you can choose a colour of Moroccan zellige that matches your decor.
About The Author
Mindy Vu is a part time shoe model and professional mum. She loves to cook and has been proclaimed the best cook in the world by her friends and family. She adores her pet dog Twinkie, and is happily married to her books.