Water Feature & Fountain Design
OUR PROCESS
Water Feature & Fountain Design
At Laughing Waters, we design, engineer, and build custom architectural fountains and interactive water features that transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences. From elegant reflecting pools to dynamic interactive splash pads, we bring together art, technology, and craftsmanship to create water features that inspire, engage, and endure.
Our team collaborates closely with architects, landscape architects, developers, and general contractors through every stage of the process—from concept and schematic design through construction and commissioning. With decades of experience as a full-service water feature contractor, Laughing Waters ensures that every project meets the highest standards of performance, safety, and beauty.
Our Design Philosophy: Bringing Water to Life
At Laughing Waters, we approach every fountain as a piece of living art—an evolving blend of sight, sound, and motion. Whether your goal is a serene, reflective water feature or a bold interactive installation, our design philosophy balances creativity with precision engineering.
Our team considers every aspect of the environment: the play of light on water, the texture of materials, the soundscape created by falling streams, and the emotional experience for the viewer. We don’t just build fountains—we craft immersive water experiences that connect people and place.
Fountain Design Process
Every great fountain starts with a vision—and turning that vision into reality requires expert coordination between design and engineering.
At Laughing Waters, our designers and engineers work side by side to refine the creative concept, evaluate site conditions, and develop a complete mechanical and electrical plan. We focus on achieving the desired aesthetic while ensuring long-term reliability and efficiency.
We also help navigate the complex codes and standards governing public fountains and interactive water features. Our systems are designed to comply with state and local health department requirements, guaranteeing that your feature is as safe as it is beautiful. Water quality and user safety are always our top priorities.
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Design & Design Development
After the initial concept is established, our team begins the schematic and design development process. This phase defines the technical and financial framework of your project.
During this stage, Laughing Waters will:
- Review project goals, precedents, and budget parameters
- Analyze utilities and site conditions for feasibility
- Develop schematic layouts with preliminary pipe and conduit sizing
- Define equipment room requirements
- and electrical loads
- Create initial specifications and refined budget estimates
- Consult with local contractors to verify accurate pricing
Once schematic and design development documents are complete, we review the system as a whole—ensuring constructibility, cost alignment, and performance. This becomes the foundation for final construction documentation.
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Construction Documentation
and Coordination
The construction documentation phase finalizes all technical details and prepares your project for the bid and build process.
During this phase, Laughing Waters:
- Produces detailed AutoCAD drawings and specifications
- Coordinates with structural, mechanical, and electrical consultants
- Finalizes component selections, control panel layouts, and wiring diagrams
- Develops a comprehensive Bill of Materials and final system cost
- Ensures compliance with all codes and ordinances
All drawings and specifications are prepared to promote competitive bidding while maintaining strict quality standards. Our documentation is explicit, thorough, and designed to prevent costly misunderstandings during installation.
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Construction Administration and Field Support
When your water feature moves into construction, Laughing Waters remains a committed partner. We assist contractors and project teams through pre-bid meetings, submittal reviews, and field coordination.
Our experienced staff provides:
- Shop drawing and submittal reviews
- Site inspections and technical support
- Responses to RFIs and field adjustments
- Progress evaluations and pay application assistance
Once installation is complete, we perform start-up and commissioning to ensure every system functions exactly as designed. We also provide complete operations and maintenance manuals, along with on-site training for owners, operators, and maintenance staff.
For complex or interactive fountains, system startup can extend over several days—allowing our technicians to fine-tune performance and ensure that your maintenance team is fully prepared to manage daily operations.
FOUNTAIN AND WATER FEATURE
Key Design Considerations
When designing architectural fountains and interactive water features, several key elements guide our process:
Pool Size and Spray Height – Proper proportion ensures both beauty and safety. In general, spray height should not exceed the distance from the nozzle to the nearest pool edge under normal wind conditions.
Depth and Safety – A maximum depth of 18 inches is standard for most installations, balancing safety and practicality.
Color and Materials – Darker basin finishes, especially black, enhance water clarity and depth perception, while lighter finishes may show sediment or mineral buildup.
Surface Texture – Rough textures amplify water sound and movement; smooth finishes create tranquil reflections.
Sound Design – Water’s sound can define the mood of a space. Cascades and aerated nozzles create dramatic, attention-grabbing audio, while fine streams produce soft, soothing tones perfect for courtyards or interior spaces.
Every project presents an opportunity to strike the perfect balance between form and function.
FOUNTAIN & WATER FEATURE
Components and Equipment Selection
A successful water feature relies on precision engineering and premium components. Laughing Waters uses only professional-grade pumps, motors, nozzles, and lighting systems—selected for their performance, durability, and ease of maintenance.
Fountain Nozzles
We offer a wide range of nozzles to achieve specific water effects, including:
- Geyser nozzles for dramatic, vertical jets
- Aerating foam jet nozzles for dense, sculpted forms
- Clear stream smooth bore nozzles for elegant arcs
- Ground-effect nozzles for flush, walkable surfaces
Pumps and Circulation Systems
Selecting the correct pump is essential for achieving the desired flow and water effect. We design pump systems based on available power, hydraulic layout, and site conditions.
- Submersible pumps are ideal for compact applications or limited mechanical space.
- Dry-pit pumps offer flexibility and are commonly used in larger, more complex systems.
- Systems are designed for optimal efficiency, minimal maintenance, and ease of access.
We also design pump pits to minimize friction loss and maximize energy efficiency by optimizing pipe runs and reducing unnecessary fittings.
FOUNTAIN & WATER FEATURE
Schematic Design Deliverables
During schematic design, Laughing Waters works closely with the design team via site meetings, virtual collaboration, and regular reviews. Deliverables typically include:
- AutoCAD-generated drawings and PDF plans
- Preliminary layout geometry and equipment locations
- Mechanical and electrical schematics
- Initial budget estimates and value engineering options
These documents become the foundation for Design Development and Construction Documentation phases, ensuring a clear and coordinated path forward.
Commissioning, Training, and Ongoing Support
At project completion, Laughing Waters performs comprehensive startup and commissioning services. Our specialists test all systems, calibrate equipment, and fine-tune performance for both aesthetics and efficiency.
We then provide in-depth training for the owner’s maintenance team, covering everything from water chemistry and filtration to system control operation. We also develop custom seasonal maintenance guides to help your team operate the system confidently year-round.
For long-term success, Laughing Waters offers ongoing service contracts, troubleshooting, and periodic inspections to keep your fountain performing as beautifully as the day it was installed.
Partner with Laughing Waters
From concept to completion, Laughing Waters is your trusted partner for architectural water features, interactive fountains, and specialty water systems. Our team combines artistic design, precise engineering, and hands-on construction expertise to bring your vision to life—safely, efficiently, and beautifully.
Whether you’re developing a public plaza, corporate campus, or private estate, we’ll help you create a water feature that defines the space and leaves a lasting impression.
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We work with all kinds of fountain and water features at varrying stages in the process. Let's talk about your project.