Texas Architect Employs Kusari-Doi, Rain Chains for Water Conservation
The distinctive fragrance of rain-soaked air and its sounds are a delightful experience, appreciated by all cultures. Our enjoyment of water features has increased with our growing awareness of the limited nature of freshwater as a resource. This awareness has led Steve Chambers, CEO and head of the Texas architects in his firm, to an interest in an ancient Japanese architectural detail, the kusari-doi, or the “rain chain,” in his modern architectural designs.
The chain functions as a downspout, allowing the water to run down the outside, as opposed to running on the inside of typical pipe. Functional as well as aesthetic, this device provides an alternative to closed systems typically used with gutters and are more like water features. Given their decorative nature, rain chains are often placed where they can be observed and heard during rain events. The chain-gutter increases the enjoyment of seeing and hearing water rhythmically cascade from the rooftop into a barrel, cistern, or decorative splash-block.
In their simplest, most traditional form, a rain chain is just that – a chain commonly constructed of copper, brass, or steel. The styles range from simple links to elaborate, multiple interlocking links, funnels, and cups.
In the strictest Japanese tradition, a kusari-doi is considered a “kinetic sculpture” and provides water music which promotes peace and tranquility, as do all of the other Zen arts. For this reason, rain chains were often used in Buddhist Temple design.
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