Brutalist Fountain Design Preview

The allure of brutalism lies in its unapologetic embrace of raw materials, geometric forms, and the inherent beauty of structural honesty. It is an aesthetic that eschews ornamentation in favor of the fundamental elements of design, celebrating the strength and permanence of concrete, steel, and other robust materials. This essay explores the design and construction of a small concrete fountain, a pyramid adorned with flowing water, as a tangible expression of brutalist principles. The project aims to synthesize the pyramid’s iconic geometry, the dynamic flow of water, and the raw texture of surface-bonding cement into a cohesive and visually arresting piece.

The genesis of this project lies in the desire to translate the monumental scale of brutalist architecture into a more intimate, domestic setting. A fountain, as a focal point in a garden or patio, offers an opportunity to engage with the aesthetic on a personal level. The pyramid, a form imbued with historical and symbolic significance, serves as the perfect canvas for this exploration. Its inherent stability and geometric purity resonate with the brutalist emphasis on structural integrity and unadorned form. The addition of two to four “fins” to the pyramid’s surface, each containing integrated water channels, introduces a dynamic element, transforming the static form into a kinetic sculpture.

The design process begins with the meticulous shaping of a pink foam insulation core. This material, chosen for its ease of manipulation and moisture resistance, allows for the creation of precise geometric forms without the need for complex molds. The shaping process itself becomes an exercise in subtractive sculpture, where excess material is removed to reveal the underlying form. A hand-held saw, wielded with precision, facilitates the initial rough shaping, while an orbital sander refines the surfaces, ensuring smooth transitions and sharp edges. This process, reminiscent of the traditional sculpting techniques, allows for a direct and intuitive engagement with the material, fostering a deep understanding of the form.

Once the foam core achieves its desired shape, the next stage involves preparing the surface for the application of concrete. Fiberglass drywall joint tape creates a robust and textured surface, providing a crucial bonding layer for subsequent materials. This step is essential for ensuring the longevity of the fountain, as it addresses the inherent incompatibility between the smooth foam and the rough concrete. The fiberglass layer acts as a bridge, creating a seamless transition between the two materials.

To safeguard the foam core against water damage, an acrylic-based masonry waterproofer is applied. This layer acts as a barrier, preventing moisture from penetrating the foam and compromising its structural integrity. The importance of this step cannot be overstated, as the fountain will be constantly exposed to water. The chosen waterproofer, specifically formulated for masonry applications, provides a durable and reliable seal, ensuring the longevity of the fountain.

The culmination of the construction process is the application of surface-bonding cement (SBC). This material, chosen for its ability to adhere to various surfaces and its inherent textural quality, embodies the essence of brutalism. The SBC is applied in layers, allowing for the creation of a raw, unadorned finish that celebrates the natural texture of the cement. The application process itself becomes an act of artistic expression, where the trowel and other tools are used to create subtle variations in texture, enhancing the visual appeal of the fountain. The natural gray hue of the cement, often a hallmark of brutalist architecture, is retained, allowing the material to speak for itself.

The pyramid’s geometric form, the water’s dynamic flow, and the raw concrete material converge to create a visually compelling piece that embodies the principles of brutalism. The pyramid’s iconic shape, a symbol of stability and permanence, provides a stark contrast to the fluid movement of the water. The water, cascading down the integrated channels on the fins, creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the visual drama of the fountain. The raw texture of the surface-bonding cement, with its subtle variations in color and texture, adds a tactile dimension to the piece, inviting the viewer to engage with the material on a sensory level.

The integration of water channels into the fins of the pyramid is a crucial design element, transforming the static form into a dynamic sculpture. The channels, carefully shaped during the foam carving process, guide the water as it flows down the pyramid’s surface, creating a mesmerizing visual display. The sound of the flowing water adds an auditory dimension to the piece, creating a sense of tranquility and serenity. The interplay of light and water, as the sunlight reflects off the flowing water, creates a captivating spectacle, enhancing the visual appeal of the fountain.

The base of the pyramid, designed as a basin for the water to collect, completes the functional design of the fountain. A small pump, concealed within the basin, recirculates the water, ensuring a continuous flow. The pump, chosen for its efficiency and quiet operation, minimizes energy consumption and noise pollution. The basin, designed to complement the pyramid’s form, provides a stable and secure foundation for the fountain.

The construction of this brutalist pyramid fountain is not merely a technical exercise; it is a creative endeavor that pushes the boundaries of design and material exploration. The project allows for a deep engagement with the principles of brutalism, translating the monumental scale of architectural forms into a more intimate and personal context. The fountain, a tangible expression of these principles, serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of brutalism, its ability to create visually striking and functionally sound pieces that resonate with the viewer on a profound level.

The interplay of the pyramid’s geometric form, the water’s dynamic flow, and the raw concrete material culminates in a piece that is both visually striking and functionally sound. This project serves as a personal exploration of brutalist design principles, pushing creative boundaries and resulting in a tangible expression of architectural philosophy. The fountain, with its raw texture, geometric purity, and dynamic water flow, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of brutalism, a style that continues to inspire and challenge designers and artists alike.

*Portions of the above were authored with the help of Google Gemini.

Sources:

Biggs, D. (2020) ‘Build a Lightweight, Waterproof Concrete Basin for Ponds and Plants’, AMAZONAS Magazine, 9 January. Available at: https://www.amazonasmagazine.com/2020/01/09/build-a-lightweight-waterproof-concrete-basin-for-ponds-and-plants/ (Accessed: 11 March 2025).