Including water features to landscapes
give movement as well as a soothing feeling to the entire space. One of the most liked materials used for large water features is corten steel. It has a modern
appearance, is rust like, durable, and very eye-catching which makes it
perfect for gardens and commercial landscapes.
A corten steel water feature is a piece of art more than a decorative feature. It has the industrial charm to it which allows it to combine with both modern and
natural atmospheres.
What is Corten Steel?
Corten steel features a unique rusted appearance, termed shipping steel, when exposed to outer weather. Most steel is exposed to steel weathering and as a result, it becomes weaker and starts to rust. Corten, however, is unique in that it develops an outer shield that prevents it from rusting.
Corten steel’s Key Highlights:
– The outer surface develops an attractive layer of rust, also termed the heart
patina, which develops over time.
– Corten steel has the unique ability to remain exposed to harsh conditions
without the need of sealant or paint.
– Minimal Upkeep: Much lower maintenance than other metals.
– Sustainability: A lasting and recyclable material.
Together, these traits make corten steel perfect for constructing oversized, long-lasting water features that improve in aesthetics over time.
Why Include A Corten Steel Water Feature To Your Site?
Large metal water feature are great for entrances to a garden, a central courtyard, or even a business site. The combination of water and corten steel makes these features a great addition to the site due to the blend of industrial energy.
Advantages of Corten Steel Water Features:
– Focal Point: Greatly enhances the overall aesthetics of the feature site in a unique way.
– Visual Serenity: The gentle sound of flowing water induces a state of calm.
– Adaptability: Suits both modern and rustic themed landscapes.
– Weather Resistant: Absolutely no worries with exposure in the open due to the corten steel.
Types of Corten Steel Water Features
1. Corten Steel Water Bowls
These are stunning features that can be appreciated on their own, or in a garden setting as a collection. Corten steel’s large water bowls acquire a beautifying patina that adds to the overall aesthetic.
2. Corten Steel Water Walls
Vertical water surfaces create a dramatic effect when water flows down a corten steel surface. These can be self supporting structures or constructed into the wall design. These designs are ideal for private gardens and public spaces.
3. Corten Steel Cascades and Fountains
The movement and energy of cascading corten steel water features is complimented by a large corten steel fountain as the focal point, which over captures the attention with a dance of water.
4. Corten Steel Ponds and Troughs
The bold industrial style of large corten steel bouts and troughs is oftentimes the compliment for the minimalist garden.
Where to Install a Corten Steel Water Feature
Large metal water features need careful placement to give the most effect.
– Garden Centerpiece: Put it in the middle of the garden and it will create an impressive focal point.
– Courtyard: These smaller, sealed spaces can be enhanced with water walls or bowl focal points that add a touch of serenity.
– Entrances: Corten Stele Water features create a stunning first impression for homes and buildings. Placing them near the entrance captures attention and exudes a magnificent ambiance.
– Commercial Spaces: Corten steel’s brandable and aesthetic qualities have led to its incorporation in hotels, office buildings, and restaurants.
Design Tips on How to Introduce a Water Feature in Corten Steel
Keep in mind the following when designing your water feature in corten steel.
– Integration with Surrounding Nature: Plants look stunning against the warm tones of corten steel.
– Aesthetic Lighting: LEDs set into the feature will create a beautiful effect after dark.
– Proportion and Size: Integrating with the existing of the area is important, as large areas will require large pieces, while smaller pieces will look better in constrained spaces.
– Textural Variations: Corten steel looks fantastic with any combination of stone, wood, or glass.
Maintenance and Regular Upkeep
The advantage of corten steel is that it requires very little maintenance.
– Natural Patina: The protective layer of a patina needs no painting or treatment.
– Periodic Cleaning: Algae or dirt may be removed by wiping the surface.
– Water Quality: The feature should be filled with clean, filtered water to prevent discoloration or mineral build-up.
– Pump Maintenance: The water pump should be checked and cleaned regularly for proper functioning.
A corten steel water feature requires little maintenance, and improves with age and years of use.
Why Are Corten Steels Most Preferred Vs Other Materials
While comparison to stainless, stone, or fiberglass, corten steel has specific advantages:
– Better Metal Over Time: Most metals and corten steel do age, but Corten steel ages quite gracefully winning the race.
– Aging Beauty: Most alternative materials get ugly when kept outside, but Corten steel maintains its aesthetic.
– Stunning Aesthetic: Corten steel balances both modern and rustic, and gives a unique appeal which is difficult to find elsewhere.
Conclusion: A Steal Added to Any Space
A corten steel water feature is more than a focal point of attraction, and is an investment center and combination of art and design placed for peace. The bold and stark combination of raw steel and flowing water enhances the beauty of both, which is typically restricted to private gardens only.
The beauty of corten metal is that with time, the aesthetics will age without losing the bonded beauty, no matter if its a large metal water bowl, an elegant Corten steel wall or a simplistic trough you’re after. For those watering to add a striking appeal to their space, the beauty of corten steel is that it will never fade.
