Beyond its vital quality, with its sounds, its texture and its versatility, water often carries with it a kind of poetry of serenity, but also of play and solace. With these attributes and many others, its integration through design enriches residential spaces. Here are a few ideas:
-In serene ponds: ponds support aquatic life, such as fish and plants, and contribute to the senses with ecological soundscapes. Especially when their design is adapted to and incorporates the habitats of native biodiversity.
–Integrated swimming pools: A swimming pool is not only a place to cool off in summer, but also an architectural feature that lends a touch of elegance to the overall design of a house. The use of local materials, as sustainable as possible, as well as efficient filtration systems that reduce the environmental impact, are highly recommended.
–Rainwater harvesting: Harnessing the water that comes from the sky is both environmentally conscious and ethically sound. Water harvesting systems are used for garden irrigation and also for domestic uses with appropriate purification treatment. This reduces dependence on an external supply and helps mitigate the impact of flooding.
–Sustainable water treatment: Environmentally friendly water treatment systems are available. Why not use natural filtration methods, such as artificial wetlands, to reduce the use of chemicals. Water treated in this way is perfectly suitable for non-potable purposes such as irrigation.
As you can see, water in the home not only contributes to making it an idyllic place, but also to its sustainability, its balance and, in general, to environmentally conscious living.
By Manolo Barberá, Senior Hydraulic Modeller in the Architecture Department of Amusement Logic
