In a town of extreme weather conditions, WET’s water feature at Seibert Circle in the ski resort of Vail offers a steady source of comfort and elemental reflection.

Five laminar streams leapfrog across an elliptical pool in an arrangement of graceful arches, while the feature’s slope creates a gentle waterfall at one end of the ellipse. The result is not only enchanting, but is a nod to the region’s natural formations and cycles.

At night, three central water jets ignite in an unexpected bloom of fire, recalling the toasty atmosphere that one looks forward to after a long day of winter activity. The laminar streams illuminate with a white light, adding further to the fountain’s nocturnal transformation.

Because the water is heated, you won’t see a tarp thrown over it come winter—this plaza centerpiece dodges the usual seasonal pitfalls to remain a year-round pleasure.