Hotels, aquariums, zoos, special exhibits and other local attractions compete for the attention of those seeking unique experiences when traveling or entertaining out-of-town guests; so, it is important to think of ways to catch their eye and draw them in.

The overall guest experience is what will set one venue or attraction apart from another. Adding a water feature to a public space, inside or outside, could be the one factor that helps a venue stand out. A water feature is not only appealing visually, but it may also have many positive health benefits for guests. A bonus benefit is that adding a water feature could also increase the property value.

Priority No. 1: Making memorable guest experiences

A positive and memorable guest experience is the top priority. Adding a water feature can help create that inviting, relaxing and sophisticated atmosphere that guests deserve. Because the entrance is the first thing they will see when they arrive, why not make it grand?

By adding a well-designed, high-quality fountain or aquarium to serve as a stunning focal point in the lobby or inside the door of a restaurant makes a memorable first impression and creates visual interest. These eye-catching centerpieces transform space and add a unique element to the environment so guests will continue thinking about it long after they leave. Other benefits to adding a water feature include:

  • It encourages them to enjoy more time in the property’s inviting outdoor space: Transform an outdoor space into a tranquil retreat by adding a water feature. Whether it is a restaurant or courtyard area, a water feature can encourage guests to spend more time outdoors as it creates a pleasant backdrop for socializing or taking a special photo. In addition, it adds a feeling of comfort and enjoyment to outdoor gatherings and enhances any private party on the property.

  • Extends the overall theme: Custom-designed water features can align with the venue’s theme or branding, reinforcing the overall concept and making spaces more cohesive. An aquarium filled with multicolored sea life to match the rest of the décor or add a pop of color creates a spectacular place for guests to sit and stare in awe.

Water features benefit mind & body health - and can create good fortune

There are many health benefits when water is around, both physically and mentally. In a pair of studies conducted by Richard Coss and Craig Keller, results showed that looking at bodies of water can help lower heart rates, blood pressure, and increase feelings of relaxation. Their findings were featured in an online article in the Journal of Environmental Psychology. This is why there are tranquil aquariums or water fountains in doctor and dentist waiting rooms. These aesthetic features are purposefully implemented to help ease a patient’s nerves.

“Fish tanks and displays are often associated with attempts at calming patients in doctors’ surgeries and dental waiting rooms,” according to Dr. Sabine Pahl, associate professor in psychology at Plymouth University.

The presence of water in a restaurant provides a more relaxed and enjoyable dining atmosphere, allowing guests to unwind and savor their meals. The sound of flowing water can create a calming, inviting environment, making guests feel more relaxed, welcomed and inclined to stay and enjoy the space and its amenities longer.

Being around any water features, such as an aquarium, a fish tank or water fountain, can reduce stress and anxiety. Other psychological benefits of being around water include:

  • Increased mental energy

  • Reduced stress levels

  • Increased alertness and focus

  • Decrease in depression symptoms

  • Better sleep

Water features can help maintain humidity levels, improving the air quality in the surrounding space, which in turn contributes to a more comfortable and relaxing environment. In addition, the movement of water naturally increases air moisture, which can positively affect air quality in the immediate surroundings. Another added benefit: water features can serve as a collection point for dust and other airborne particles, thus acting as natural air purifiers.

Lastly, an aquarium can bring luck to those who visit a space. Think of it as fish tank feng shui. Feng shui is the Chinese art or practice of creating harmonious surroundings that enhance the balance of yin and yang, as in arranging furniture or determining the siting of a house. It is not uncommon to see fish tanks or aquariums in feng shui practice; and when placed properly, they are believed to bring a plethora of good fortune.

  • Fish tanks are said to set money and career luck in motion

  • They can counter negative energy

  • They may attract love affairs

  • They often get credit for bringing wealth, money and abundance

Enhancing curb appeal increases investment

Organizations are investing a lot of time and money to create spaces that will bring guests from all over the world, year over year, to their property. A high-quality, unique water feature will not only enhance curb appeal but will also increase the value of the investment.

Water features add attractive design elements to public spaces around a property, such as hallways or waiting areas; and well-maintained water features can add to property value as well. For example, high-end water features add elegance and elevate the overall design and sophistication of hotel lobbies, reflecting the quality of the hotel and leaving guests wanting more.

Fountains or reflecting pools can complement and enhance garden designs and improve the overall aesthetics of outdoor areas. With these enhanced features, guests will continue to visit a property, which adds to the bottom line. In addition, they will tell their friends and family about the memorable experience they had and insist that they plan to visit that property when they travel to the area. This word-of-mouth advertising is powerful.

Protecting an investment: Maintaining water features

Water features not only enhance the visual appeal of hotel spaces but also contribute to the overall guest experience as they create a more inviting, relaxing and sophisticated atmosphere. However, if not properly maintained, they can turn that relaxing experience into a stressful one for both management and guests. Unmaintained features will make for negative reviews and the kind of word of mouth an organization would not want.

When designing and planning any kind of water feature for guests to enjoy, make sure to also plan for what it will take to maintain them. There is a lot needed to make a water feature or aquarium look as good as it did on the first day. Facility managers will need to consistently clean and maintain a water feature so that the water is crystal clear. Because unplanned repairs can cost a lot of money, proper and consistent maintenance can help prevent leaks and failures. Making sure to use safe chemicals for cleaning can help prolong the life of the water feature.

In addition to regular maintenance and proper cleaning, FMs can avoid costly maintenance issues by investing in a monthly and annual preventive maintenance plan from specialized professionals.

By planning ahead and being proactive with the maintenance of unique and high-quality features, FMs can focus on the most important thing: their guests. Taking proper care of water features ensures that guests continue to enjoy the aesthetic features put in place and continue to enhance their overall positive experience. This positive experience will keep them coming back time and time again.