Fountain Engineering & Design Consulting
OUR PROCESS
Fountain Engineering and Design Consulting
When it comes to designing fountains and architectural water features, creativity is only half the equation. The other half—the part that makes your vision actually work—is engineering.
At Laughing Waters, we specialize in the engineering, specification, and system design that transform fountain concepts into fully functional, code-compliant, and maintainable realities.
We partner directly with
architects, landscape architects, and developers who have an initial design vision and need a trusted water feature engineering team to bring it to life with precision and performance.
Your Engineering Partner in Fountain Design
Fountains are complex systems that combine mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and control components. Successful projects require an integrated approach where every element—piping, pumping, lighting, filtration, and controls—works in harmony.
Laughing Waters provides complete fountain engineering support, including:
- Hydraulic and mechanical system design
- Pump and nozzle selection
- Piping and conduit layout
- Electrical load calculations and control system design
- Water quality, filtration, and disinfection systems
- Waterproofing coordination and detailing
- Equipment room layout and specification
- Budget validation and value engineering
Our role is to translate creative concepts into buildable, maintainable designs that perform reliably for years to come.
Collaborating with Architects & Landscape Architects
We know how vital design intent is. Our engineers collaborate closely with the design team to ensure that every fountain maintains its artistic vision while meeting practical and technical requirements.
Whether your concept calls for a quiet reflecting pool, an interactive plaza fountain, or a complex multi-jet display, Laughing Waters provides the technical framework that makes it possible.
We participate at any stage of design, but we’re most effective when engaged early in schematic development, where our input helps shape the most cost-effective, code-compliant solutions.
Our Process Typically Includes:
Design Review and Consultation – Evaluate the conceptual fountain design and identify functional needs.
- System Engineering –
Develop complete hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical schematics.
- Specification Writing – Provide clear equipment, control, and installation specifications for the bid set.
- Budget Support – Deliver accurate cost estimates and options to align with project goals.
- Coordination – Work with structural, MEP, and architectural teams to ensure integration with surrounding systems.
Our collaboration streamlines the process—reducing redesigns, cost overruns, and installation challenges.
fountain and water feature
From Design Development to Construction Documents
Once the schematic concept is approved, Laughing Waters prepares detailed drawings, control logic, and specifications for inclusion in the final construction document set.
Deliverables often include:
- AutoCAD plans with mechanical and electrical layouts
- Nozzle, pump, and control schematics
- Equipment schedules and product data
- Sequence-of-operations documents
- Water treatment and filtration design
- Project-specific performance specifications
All designs comply with state and local codes, health department mandates, and public safety standards. Our goal is to make the fountain both stunning and structurally sound, energy-efficient, and maintainable.
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Engineering for Performance, Safety, and Longevity
Beyond appearance, a fountain’s success depends on its performance and durability. Laughing Waters designs systems that maintain water quality, operate efficiently, and minimize maintenance for facility owners.
We take into account every technical factor that influences long-term reliability:
- Pump and filter sizing for hydraulic efficiency
- Pipe friction losses and flow balancing
Spray height versus wind consideration - Electrical load distribution and GFCI compliance
- Automation and remote control integration
- Freeze protection, drainage, and seasonal operation
Every decision we make supports your creative vision and the fountain’s lasting functionality.
fountain and water feature
Why Architects Choose
Laughing Waters
Architects and design professionals choose Laughing Waters because we make complex fountain systems clear, coordinated, and constructible.
We’re not just consultants—we’re engineers who understand how fountains are actually built, installed, and maintained. Our real-world experience allows us to identify issues early, prevent costly redesigns, and simplify the construction process.
Our Advantages
- Decades of hands-on water feature design/build experience
- Proven success in municipal, commercial, and institutional projects
- Direct collaboration with architects and MEP teams
- Transparent communication and reliable deliverables
- Commitment to safety, performance, and sustainability
When you bring Laughing Waters onto your design team, you’re adding a partner who knows how to make water behave exactly as intended.
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.
Start Your Fountain Design Collaboration
If you’re an architect or landscape architect developing a project with a water feature, engage Laughing Waters early in the process.
We’ll help you specify the right equipment, design efficient systems, and coordinate every technical detail—so your concept flows seamlessly from idea to installation.
Need a fountain engineer?
Send us a message now.
We work with all kinds of fountain and water features at varrying stages in the process. Let's talk about your project.