Simple Residential Rain Barrel (Left) A trash can or a 55 gallon drum can be used under a downspout for residential applications. Pre‐made rain barrels are also readily available in many different styles and colors. Water System for Organic Gardening (Below) Islandwood Environmental Learning Center, Bainbridge Island, Washington This series of catchment cisterns collects roof runoff to water the organic learning gardens.
Rain Cisterns for Irrigation and Home Use (Below and bottom right) Cisterns are available in many materials and colors.
Residential Rain Cistern (left) Private Residence, Texas This custom rain cistern collects rainwater for use within the home. Landscape Feature Rain Cistern (below) Denton County Administrative Building, Denton County, Texas A central piece within the landscape, this cistern becomes part of the architecture.
Rain Cistern as Sculpture (below) Accumuwater Water Towers by Mojorno These water towers collect falling rain and become sculpture pieces within the landscape.
Cistern for Graywater Use (left) Columbia Credit Union – Grand Central Vancouver, BC Saving 13,500 gallons anually, the water harvested in this cistern is used for landscaping and graywater use within the building.
Education in the Landscape (right) Wetland Discover Point – Utah Botanical Garden Learning Center Used as a learning tool, the cistern collects roof runoff which is then used for irrigation and sanitary uses within the building.
Cisterns as Living Walls (above and middle right) CISTA by Moss Sund in collaboration with Figforty. Collecting up to 100 gallons, the CISTA provides homeowners an alternative to traditional rain barrels and adds vertical green elements to any space. Cisterns as Architecture (right) Cape Schank Residence, Victoria, Australia An architectural element within the home, this cistern collects roof runoff and cools the ambient temperature of the living space.
Rain Collection as Art in the Landscape (current and following page) Rain collection does not need to be the typical eyesore that is hidden from view. It can be celebrated and brought to the forefront with artistic elements.