Divinity Recuperating
The Triton Fountain in Königsallee, one of the city's most beautiful attractions, underwent a significant renovation in 2015. This article aims to shed light on the events that led to the renovation, the challenges faced, and the costs involved.
The Sequence of Events
- Observation of Environmental Impact: The presence of plane trees and geese near the Triton Fountain caused potential damage to the infrastructure over time.
- Identification of Maintenance Needs: Regular inspections revealed the need for repairs due to wear and tear exacerbated by these environmental factors.
- Planning and Budgeting: A decision to renovate involved planning and costing, considering both the environmental factors and the overall condition of the fountain.
Causes Leading to Renovation
- Environmental Factors: The growth of the plane trees caused damage to the fountain, while the geese's droppings degraded surfaces and potentially harmed the fountain's infrastructure.
- Public Use and Aesthetics: The Triton Fountain, as a public landmark, needed to maintain its appearance and functionality to continue attracting visitors.
Costs
- Maintenance and Repairs: Regular cleaning and repair of the fountain due to environmental stressors incurred ongoing costs.
- Renovation Costs: A full renovation required a significant investment in materials and labor, potentially exacerbated by any environmental challenges.
The Renovation Process
- Assessment and Repair: An expert's investigation revealed the fountain's stability was compromised. Repairs to the side balustrades were necessary due to damage from two plane trees. Comprehensive cleaning was also performed during the renovation.
- Stabilization: Two angle support walls were installed to stabilize the side balustrades of the Triton Fountain.
- Delay: A pair of geese chose the Triton Fountain as their nesting place in April, causing a delay in the renovation. No work could be carried out near the nest during the geese's breeding season.
- Renovation of the Head Arch: The "head arch" of the Triton Fountain was renovated in 2015, with costs amounting to 180,000 euros.
- Conclusion of the Renovation: The Triton Fountain renovation was successfully concluded, and the side balustrades were reinstalled.
Impact and Reaction
Culture Commissioner Hans-Georg Lohe expressed relief at the successful conclusion of the Triton Fountain renovation, marking the regaining of one of Königsallee's most beautiful attractions. The renovated Triton Fountain will continue to stand as a testament to the challenges faced and overcome in maintaining public spaces in the face of environmental factors.
Homeowners and garden enthusiasts must address environmental factors and public use to maintain the aesthetics and longevity of their home-and-garden features, similar to the Triton Fountain in Königsallee. The growth of trees and the presence of geese near the fountain caused damage over time, necessitating a lifestyle adjustment - such as regular cleaning and repairs - to preserve the feature's beauty and functionality.
