A multisensory landmark for public spaces
More than a decorative element, ABAU DESIGN's Water Fountain is designed to help people experience and navigate outdoor environments through multiple senses.
Its first installation can be found in the courtyard of the new Jakomäki Care Home in Helsinki. Although the building has not yet opened to residents, the fountain is already in place as part of the landscape, marking the back entrance and creating a distinctive focal point within the courtyard.
Originally developed as a sound beacon, the fountain helps visitors orient themselves by the gentle sound of flowing water. This can be particularly valuable for people with visual impairments, making the entrance easier to locate and contributing to a more accessible outdoor environment.
The experience extends beyond sound. The basin is filled with carefully selected natural stones that invite touch, adding a tactile dimension to the space, while the flowing water introduces movement and visual interest throughout the day. Together, these elements create a calming multisensory experience that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages and abilities.
The fountain operates as a closed-loop system, continuously circulating water within the structure. It is designed as an architectural feature rather than a source of drinking water.
As the first installation of a new product, the Jakomäki fountain also marks the beginning of ongoing product development. We are evaluating materials and surface finishes in real-life conditions to ensure the fountain performs as beautifully over time as it does on the day of installation. Based on these findings, future versions may be offered in materials such as corten steel, stainless steel, or aluminium, providing durable, low-maintenance finishes for public environments.
Dimensions
- Height: 1200 mm
- Width: 900 mm
- Depth: 950 mm
Prices starting at 1990€, when smaller size and stainless/corten steel

