This Client had dead grass and, due to the drought, wanted something more water friendly. Most people believe that a pond or water feature uses more water but, in fact, a pond will typically use at least 50% less water than turf in the same area. We discussed a pond and the idea of using the two trees in the distance to picture frame the waterfall, however, the area towards the corner was actually lower than the grade of the pond near there patio.
Start Project
The solution was to build an interlocking block wall at the back area for support of the waterfall. This also allowed us to use the soil from the excavation process to create a natural slope for the waterfall and stream.
Work in Progress
As the soil was located against the wall, boulders were used to provide terracing planters around the waterfall for eventual landscaping. Also, the boulder walls hide the wall so all of the rock work ties through the stream to the pond.
Completed
Once the landscape is in and the pond cleaned the look has completely changed. All of the terrestrial plants are irrigated using drip, which uses far less water, and there is no grass to mow. Over time, as the plants grow around the pond and waterfall, this backyard will look better and better!
Sitting tucked near the open space of Mount Diablo this home had scenic views of the hills and meadows of East Contra Costa County but a pool and spa that needed renovation. The slope near the pool was screaming for a waterfall but it needed to match the size of the tree and view it shared.
Progress
After the pool and spa were partially remodeled with new Connecticut Flagstone coping and new tile the real adventure begins. How to get 30+ tons of boulders into the slope and set using 45 mil EPDM liner…one boulder at a time!
Waterfall goes in
As we completed the waterfall the rest of the work around the waterfall could be finished off. New stairs and concrete along with additional walls to retain the waterfall area. Multiple contractors were onsite working together to make the project come to fruition.
Time to enjoy
When the two 3 hp Pentair WhisperFlo pumps were turned on…WOW! The look matched the sounds and the stone bridge crossing over the stream cried out to be crossed. The advantage to having two pumps allows for a slower flow and softer sounds with one pump off when it is time to enjoy a book or a morning cup of coffee without giving up the drama of a mighty waterfall when entertaining.
Starting with a dirt backyard this project utilized a 36′ x 60′ space with the theme of a “Tropical Paradise”. Once soils reports were completed, design approved and permits received the excavation process began. Unfortunately, rain caused a few delays but made for a great mud pit for the kids!
Spa Completed
Using our talented masons and quality stone and tile, the pool, spa and grotto started to come together. Boulders placed around the pool and spa gave the feel of a natural lagoon while creating strategic planters for landscaping that would soften the hardscape edges.
Grotto and Waterfall
The grotto (cave) waterfall required over 12 tons of natural stone to complete and was set one rock at a time. A large telescoping forklift was used to set the large boulders using straps and finesse.
Added sitting area
A small sitting area with a table was designed for an intimate drink poolside or a resting spot for the adults.
Ready for Enjoyment
With the water filled, landscape complete and all systems go, the fun begins! This pool is only 5′ deep at the deepest so is completely usable space to cool off or play volleyball. The rope swings hanging from the palm trees added the feel and fun of the neighborhood lake.
Color Changing Lights
Lighting is the icing on the cake and, if done well, creates a magical ambiance that is the difference between good projects and great ones. Fiber-optic and color-changing LED lighting along with low voltage landscape lighting was used to accent and amplify the colors of the stone and landscape.
After receiving a call from this Client that there concrete pond was leaking we set up a consultation with the understanding that the system would most likely need to rebuilt. It is very difficult to repair concrete systems with any degree of success. We started by surveying and inspecting the pond to see all of the problems and, of course, repair was not an option. The simple rigidity of the concrete/mortar had been compromised by normal earth movement over time.
Beautiful Canvas
The back drop of this feature were these beautiful natural boulders the size of cars so stone and boulders were used to make it look like it was all apart of the same rock formations.
Many Problems
From the existing stream leaks, pond leaks and skimmer failure there was no way to bring this system back from the dead.
Completed
Not only was the new pond enlarged but the streams were elongated and an additional split stream was added for better viewing as you walk up the entrance to their front door.
We added Lights as well
The shadows and hot spots within the streams and outside the streams accenting the cascades and large rock formations gave the light motion as if dancing in the night.
Watch the evolution of this project in the following video
We were contacted by the hit TV series Yard Crashers to build a pond for their show. We jumped at the opportunity and our crew did an amazing job in 48 hours. This was what the backyard looked like before we started.
Demo Begins
Working with the host, landscape crews, masons, electricians and carpenters we converged on this project to transform the entire backyard.
Filming and Working
Here we are explaining what an Aquascape skimmer is and how it works.
Liner Goes In
Once the pond was excavated the underlayment and 45 mil EPDM liner is installed to create the water barrier. It looks ugly at first but things will change soon!
Rocking & Rolling
Final touches on the stream and pond are being done while the pond fills. The interlocking block walls are a great accent to the pond and stream giving the yard more depth and interest.
Job Completed and Ready To Enjoy
The sounds of the stream and waterfall were so soothing and enjoyed from every spot in the backyard.
Bridge Adds a Destination Point
The bridge across the stream to a natural rock bench beckons you to take the journey for a must needed rest. 48 hours later it is time for the reveal and the homeowners are blown away!
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