Who Doesn't Want the Perfect Backyard?

When I think of the perfect backyard, something like this one comes to mind. It has a little of everything ... patios, fire pit, plantings, stone pathway, and of course, a pond and waterfall! The design is flawless as one area leads to the next, beckoning you to stay outdoors longer.

An etched stone says "Sanctuary" and truly it is ... for humans and critters alike!

A mossy waterfall not only provides beauty but adds soothing sounds.

Not only can these homeowners enjoy a fire but can also listen to the sounds of the waterfalls in
the background as they relax on their patio.  

Your meal or beverage tastes that much better while enjoying it at a pondside bar. 
Guests will certainly feel welcome and inspired here!

Stepping stones descend from the patio in the background, winding their way to the lower level, inviting visitors to explore the twists and turns of the stream and waterfalls.

A stone bridge creates a place to sit and dangle your feet in the water.

Plantings soften the rock while large outcroppings provide a place to sit.

Shallow pockets of water entice birds to come bathe.

When you think of the perfect outdoor living space, what do you envision?

To see more outdoor living inspiration, visit us on Pinterest!

How a Chicago Suburbanite Transformed their Backyard with Water

Some people are just avid gardeners and have a green thumb. And then there are those who love water in the landscape and wear a blue thumb! Such is the case for this suburban Chicago homeowner who filled his landscape with waterfalls, fountains, and a pond.

An ecosystem pond can be low-maintenance if you include fish and aquatic plants to help balance the water quality.

A beautiful waterfall helps to aerate the pond and drown out nearby traffic noise.

A wooden bridge invites you to explore further.

A stacked slate fountain urn becomes architecture in the garden.

A group of basalt columns take center stage in this lush garden.

*Water feature installed by Aquascape Designs.*

How a Pondless Waterfall Created an Outdoor Retreat

Newlyweds living in the suburbs of Chicago yearned for an entire backyard makeover after moving into their first home together. The landscape was typical of most homes in the area ... a patio with an expanse of grass. The couple added a fence to the yard but didn't realize their dreams of an outdoor retreat until the addition of a beautiful Pondless Waterfall!

A Pondless Waterfall is basically a waterfall without a pond.

The couple's new waterfall hugs the patio so that it can be enjoyed up close and personal.

By using rocks of various shapes and sizes, the waterfall appears as though it has always been there.

Moss covered rocks lend an aged appearance to the water feature.

Proper biological filtration ensures the water stays clean and clear.

The couple enjoys listening to the soothing sound of running water in their landscape.

A Patio Pond with aquatic plants was cleverly added to the edge of the waterfall's stream.

The couple's Pondless Waterfall provides a refreshing background while enjoying summer days out on the patio. Instead of watching the grass grow, they now enjoy the beauty and sound of running water!

*Water feature installed by Aquascape Designs.*

Amazing Suburban Backyard Transformed with Water Features

Some people love water features and others are downright passionate about them. The owner of this suburban Chicago residence wanted something grand and peaceful in his backyard, all at the same time. The typical suburban expanse of grass with a patio or deck has been completely transformed into an oasis amid the hustle and bustle of city life.

 Taking center stage is a beautiful ecosystem fish pond with waterlilies and lush landscape.

From this angle, you can see that the pond comes right up to the stone patio, as opposed to being tucked in a corner of the yard where it can't be fully appreciated.

A close-up view reveals an aged appearance to the waterfalls, even though this water feature is brand new.

A stone bridge traverses the pond, beckoning visitors to explore more of this backyard paradise.

Another view of the back of the house shows the expanse of the pond.

A simple stone path winds its way throughout the landscape, revealing plants and water features at every bend ...

... like this re-circulating pondless waterfall. A sub-surface reservoir holds water that is repeatedly turned over the falls, conserving on the use of water in the landscape.

A rustic tree-type pergola provides shade on hot summer days.

An amazing stone bar creates a strategic view of this oasis, while the pooled water at one end constantly flows into the water feature itself. Who wouldn't want to entertain out here?

Speaking of views ... this rustic waterfall can be seen right outside the office window located in the home's lower level. Once again, the water is stored in a buried basin and continually recirculates over the falls.

It's hard to believe this amazing waterscape is located just west of Chicago!

Watch the video to see the entire backyard:

(Water features installed by Aquascape)

Rustic Waterfalls Add Drama to a Landscape

Most people who want water in their landscape choose the sound of a waterfall as the number one choice for their desire. Backyard rustic waterfalls can take the shape of small, babbling brooks or loud, thunderous falls. Rock choice makes a big difference in the appearance of your waterfall, and many homeowners choose a rustic appearance for their water feature.

Cool, dark rocks create an air of intrigue and mystery to this suburban backyard water feature. Note how the water is divided between the crags of the rock as it flows downstream.

A Boring Backyard is Transformed with Refreshing Pond and Waterfalls

Spring is here and summer is right around the corner. April is a great month to consider what changes you'd like to make in your backyard. Since we love water features, we can't think of a better way to add beauty and interest to your outdoor living space than with some type of running water. Here's an example of how a boring expanse of grass became a gorgeous oasis in the suburbs of Chicago.

This landscape used to be all lawn and no pizzazz. Now, the homeowner can sit by their watery paradise on a  rustic bench. A variety of plants helps to blend the pond into the surrounding landscape.

Beautiful Ponds and Waterfalls for Backyard Living

More and more people are sprucing up their backyards to create outdoor living environments where they can relax, de-stress, and entertain friends and family. We took a virtual trip across the country, compliments of Houzz, looking for gorgeous ponds and waterfalls to share with you.

Traditional Landscape design by Philadelphia Landscape Architect Signature Pond and Patio

The Beauty of an Autumn Pond

Are we really into the month of November already? It seems like August was just yesterday when the waterlilies and lotus were blooming heartily in the water garden. Despite the fading blooms, water gardens still look beautiful during the cooler days of autumn.

This beautiful home is graced with a pond and stream at its entrance.

The Pink Lotus

The lovely Lotus is perhaps one of the most stunning of aquatic plants, from bud to full bloom to seed pod. Is there anything more playful yet elegant than a pink lotus on a warm, summer day?

Outdoor Living Spaces

Now that the weather's warming up, it's time to turn a critical eye to your outdoor living space. Flowers, fences, gazebos and benches are all pretty ... but what really makes your landscape a peaceful paradise is the sound of running water in the landscape. Combine a variety of elements in your landscape to create a beautiful outdoor living space you can enjoy for hours on end.

A cottage-style gazebo provides the optimal viewing vantage of this lovely pond and waterfall.

Pond Paradise in the Backyard

Some might view a wooded, sloping lot as a landscaper's design challenge. But when you incorporate water, the solution is quite simple. Work with the natural slope of the yard to create stunning waterfalls, and create twists and turns around trees to provide visual interest. This yard has it all! From a soothing water feature to gazebo to outdoor kitchen, and more!

Just outside the patio door is a stunning fireplace and flagstone patio that cozies up to a

small waterfall and pond. Comfortable seating provides a great place for relaxing well into the evening.

Pink in the Water Garden

Even though Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on Groundhog Day, I'm still thinking spring! So I dug up some photos of pink waterlilies and lotus to enjoy on a rather gray day in Illinois. Words aren't needed to describe these bathing beauties of the pond world ... the photos speak for themselves. Enjoy!

Winter Wonderland

Winter arrived late for many parts of the country, but once the snow flies, water gardens are transformed into frosty, magical places. Hope you enjoy the scenery ...

Freshen Your Landscape

Nothing makes a landscape sing like a melodic waterfall, babbling brook, or peaceful pond. That large expanse of grass in your backyard can be freshened with a breathtaking water feature - and let's face it - you hate mowing the grass anyway.

Here's your typical suburban yard ... well manicured green lawn with trees, shrubs, patio, and decorative fence. Not bad, but not great either.

Come Set a Spell

A charming bench awaits your company. It's calling your name, beckoning you to make time for yourself and drink in the view of the peaceful water garden. You answer the call and set a spell while the stress of the world slides from your shoulders.

Lush greenery and a soothing water garden help cool the climate.

Froggy Friday

Frogs love ponds, no doubt about it! Pond owners enjoy hearing the chorus of frogs in the spring and summer as they sing their hearts out. Make no mistake, these little green critters are cute as can be.

Outdoor Dining by the Pond

Dining outdoors is a refreshing experience, especially when you have friends, family, a beloved pet, and a beautiful view of a pond filled with koi and waterlilies!

Waterfalls: The Perfect Abode for Moss

In the splash zone around cascading waterfalls, a fine mist dances through the air ... perfect for nourishing a verdant carpet of moss. Moss lends an earthy element to a new water feature, making it look as though the pond and waterfalls have been there for eons.

Climatis winds its way around the rocks, its lavendar flowers providing a perfect foil to the bright green moss clinging to the cool rocks.

On Golden Pond

Although waterlilies and lotus are fading, the spectacular golds and reds of the trees add bursts of striking color around the water garden. A reflective pond doubles your viewing pleasure of nature's riotous exit from summer.

Cattails stretch tall as leaves begin their descent into the gentle waters below.

What's Outside Your Window?

Everyone wants a room with a view, right? If your landscape is lacking when you look out your window, you can always spruce up your yard. Or better yet ... you can add a room with large windows and design a water feature to flow right up to the glass like this homeowner did!

Rather than put the patio next to the sliding door, the water garden was brought up close, with a charming walkway stretching across the pond.