Have you ever stood in front of an artistic water column with color-changing lights and water jets moving to music, and wondered what’s inside? In reality, the structure of an artistic water column is a sophisticated combination of mechanics, electronics, lighting, and aesthetics. In this article, NLT Group analyzes in detail the structure of an artistic water column and explains why it is increasingly applied in modern landscape design.
Overview of artistic water columns
What is an artistic water column?
An artistic water column is a vertical water-jet system that creates a tall, upright “column” of water, often combined with color-changing LED lighting, motion effects, and background music. While it may look simple at first glance, the structure of an artistic water column is actually quite complex, consisting of multiple layers of equipment working in harmony to create a striking “wow” effect that captures attention.
Role and applications in modern landscapes

It is no coincidence that more and more parks, shopping malls, high-end residential developments, and outdoor stages choose to install artistic water columns, because they:
- Create a vivid focal point that attracts passersby at first sight.
- Transform rigid spaces into environments where emotions are awakened.
- Most importantly, the structure of an artistic water column allows designers to “program” it according to virtually any creative concept, from gentle, symphonic light performances to dynamic EDM-style water dances.
In other words, installing an artistic water column is a fusion of smart technology and visual art, not just a decorative solution, but a way to tell stories, evoke emotions, and connect people with space.
>> See more: Applications of decorative water columns in modern spaces
Structure of an artistic water column: components and functions

Main components forming the water column structure
Decorative materials (3–4 mm white pebbles): More than simple decoration, white pebbles with a 3–4 mm diameter act as reflective elements that enhance light effects, add visual depth, and elevate overall artistic value. They are typically arranged around the base of the water column or within the technical housing, ensuring harmony with surrounding architecture.
Transparent acrylic tube: This is the main body through which the water jet travels vertically. With high transparency and excellent durability, acrylic allows LED light to diffuse evenly, creating a sparkling effect, while withstanding high water pressure and ensuring safety.
Ø34 jet nozzle: The jet nozzle shapes the water flow, converting pressure from the pump into a vertical water jet. With a Ø34 diameter, it provides sufficient flow to form a strong, stable water column with minimal curvature. Precision in nozzle manufacturing directly affects visual quality and long-term operational reliability.
Integrated lighting system
Stainless steel 304 RGB 3-in-1 LED lights – 18W
Specialized LED RGB lights made of stainless steel 304 are corrosion-resistant, waterproof, and durable in humid environments. With a power rating of 18W, they deliver strong illumination and flexible color changes. These lights are usually installed inside or around the column body so that light shines upward through the water, creating a shimmering, magical effect.
DMX512/RDM control – lighting effects synchronized with music
A modern artistic water column structure cannot be complete without DMX512 lighting control, a professional communication standard widely used in stage and lighting performances. This protocol enables multiple lights to be synchronized simultaneously, producing lighting effects that follow music, predefined scripts, or water movement. The integration of RDM (Remote Device Management) further simplifies programming and remote maintenance.
High-performance dedicated pump system

AFVARIONAUT 60W pump – DMX512/BLDC24V control
The pump is the heart of the water column, generating the pressure needed to propel water upward. The AFVARIONAUT 60W pump supports continuous operation and integrates electronic control via DMX512/BLDC24V, allowing real-time pressure adjustment so the water jet reaches precise heights and stays synchronized with accompanying effects.
ABS plastic pump housing
ABS plastic offers excellent electrical insulation, strength, and water resistance, ensuring safety in constantly humid operating conditions. This makes it an optimal material for systems that demand both high performance and safety.
Water housing and control system
FoamPVC enclosure with two-component coating
The water housing not only stores clean water for the system but also protects all internal technical equipment. FoamPVC coated with a two-component paint enhances waterproofing, UV resistance, and mechanical durability. The enclosure is designed as a sealed technical unit that allows easy maintenance without compromising overall aesthetics.
Integrated technical components for stable operation
Inside the housing are control modules, pressure sensors, pumps, and lighting units. Optimal arrangement and proper isolation between water and electronic devices are critical factors that ensure the artistic water column structure operates stably over long periods.
Advantages of modern artistic water column structures

Easy installation and convenient maintenance
One of the key reasons many investors choose to install artistic water columns is their fast installation and simple maintenance. Thanks to a modular design, technical components such as pumps, LED lights, technical enclosures, and control systems can be installed in a coordinated manner, significantly reducing on-site construction time.
In addition, routine maintenance is optimized through rational equipment layout. Technicians can easily inspect, replace, or upgrade components without dismantling the entire system. This is especially important for projects that require continuous and stable operation, such as shopping malls or public squares.
Energy efficiency and operational safety
Operational efficiency is a crucial factor. Modern artistic water column structures typically integrate low-power RGB LED lights and low-voltage controlled pumps, helping reduce energy consumption while still delivering vivid performance effects.
In terms of safety, all materials are carefully selected. Corrosion-resistant stainless steel 304, electrically insulating ABS plastic, and wiring and power supplies that comply with strict technical safety standards all help minimize risks of short circuits or electric leakage in humid environments, providing peace of mind for operators.
High flexibility and easy customization for different spaces
There are no fixed limits to artistic water column design. Depending on spatial scale, architectural style, and usage goals, the system can be flexibly adjusted in terms of water jet height, nozzle type, lighting, background music, and performance scenarios.
With an open structure, designers can fully customize each project. Whether it is a hotel courtyard, an outdoor stage, or an internal pathway in a smart urban area, an artistic water column can integrate seamlessly and become an emotional focal point.
Conclusion
Understanding the detailed structure of an artistic water column not only helps investors grasp the technical aspects, but also provides a solid basis for making optimal decisions regarding design, cost, and long-term use objectives. By clearly understanding each component, operating principles, and real-world application potential, stakeholders can accurately assess project value, avoid resource waste, and ensure sustainable operation over time.
A visually attractive design alone is not enough. What truly matters is whether the internal structure is well-coordinated, precise, and suitable for actual operating conditions. This is the decisive factor that determines investment efficiency and the emotional value a project brings to the community.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What components make up an artistic water column structure?
The system includes key components such as an acrylic tube forming the column body, pressure nozzles, integrated RGB LED lights, electronically controlled pumps, a technical enclosure, and a DMX512 control system.
Can the height of the water column be adjusted as required?
Yes. The height is controlled through pump pressure and nozzle configuration tailored to each specific design.
Does the water enclosure require regular cleaning?
Yes. Depending on the environment and operating frequency, the system should be periodically inspected and cleaned to ensure clean water flow and stable equipment performance.
What is DMX512? Is it complicated to use?
DMX512 is a specialized communication standard for controlling lighting and effects in artistic performances. The system comes with integrated software and a user-friendly interface, suitable for both technicians and general users.
Can the water column be installed outdoors without a roof?
Yes. Modern artistic water column structures use waterproof, UV-resistant materials and equipment that meets dust- and moisture-resistance standards, ensuring durability even in harsh weather conditions.
Contact information
If you are interested in implementing an artistic water screen system or need consultation on artistic fountain solutions, feel free to contact NLT Group.
Nam Long Technology Investment Group (NLT Group)
- Hotline: 0911 379 581
- Email: kinhdoanh@nlt-group.com
- TIN: 0313339640
- Address: 43T Ho Van Hue Street, Duc Nhuan Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
Contact us today for a free consultation and experience modern artistic water feature solutions from NLT Group!
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