Incorporating a Pond Into a Zen-Inspired Backyard Aesthetic in Fitchburg and Madison, WI
Nature is soothing, and few elements are as soothing as water. If you’re considering bringing serenity to your backyard, then a backyard pond could be the answer. Here are tips for incorporating a pond into a zen-inspired backyard aesthetic in Fitchburg and Madison, WI, and let the water wash your worries away!
Related Read: How a Pond Brings the Great Outdoors to Your Backyard in Middleton, WI
There are a few things that will make your pond a wonderful zen-like retreat.
A Place to Sit
Having a comfortable place to sit makes all the difference. The perfect spot to relax could be a small paver patio with a comfortable lounge chair, a swing made for two, or a pebble “beach” with a hammock. Adding a small pergola will offer shade if there are no trees nearby.
A Waterfall
Moving water can be even more soothing than still water. Moving water is white noise that masks the sounds of nearby traffic, making your backyard feel like a true oasis. A waterfall adds visual interest to the backyard. It’s also an opportunity to get creative with stones or boulders as design elements. Waterfalls can look natural (like a mountain stream) if you use rounded stones and boulders. You can go sleek minimalist with a spillway made with precisely stacked stones… or a combination!
A Bubbler Fountain
Instead of a waterfall, you could add a bubbler fountain to the center of your pond to aerate the water. Illuminating this at night can make your pond an after-dark focal point.
Tranquil Colors
Keeping your pond area simple and monochromatic will add to the zen-like tranquility. Use cool colors on your hardscapes (patio and walkway) and opt for lush, green plants with just a few random pops of color. When a simple color scheme is combined with the serenity of water, you have a wonderful combination of soothing elements.
Casual Boulders or Formal Masonry
If you love the look of a natural pond, you could edge it with boulders and add a mix of plants to achieve a random, carefree look. If you prefer the elegance of a formal pond, then a masonry surround will give your pond structure - and a place to sit and dip your toes if you like.
An Island
If your pond is large enough, you could place a large, flat-topped boulder or floating deck in the center. Make the “island” accessible by a small bridge or stepping stones, and place a chair or two - or even a hammock - in a wonderful remote spot that can make you feel miles away from your worries.
A Bridge
No matter what size your pond is, a bridge gives you an opportunity to see the water from multiple angles. This is especially nice if your pond is surrounded by boulders and/or vegetation - and if you have fish! A bridge could be a boardwalk, large stepping stones, a Japanese-style arched bridge, or for the adventurous, even a rope bridge. Whether it’s practical or not, a bridge is a decorative element that’s sure to spark conversations.
Reflections
A still-water pond can be a work of art, if you surround it with interesting objects such as trees, tall ornamental grasses, or a sculpture that will be reflected on its surface.
Fire
Placing a fire pit near a pond makes for a cozy spot for family and friends to enjoy each other’s company. The reflections of the flames on the water will transform your backyard into a magical getaway!
Related: Surround Your Pond in Monona, WI With the Following Features
About the Author
With over two decades in business and maintaining an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau the entire time, Proscapes LLC is a leading landscape company in the Madison, WI, area. As a Unilock Authorized Contractor, we are recognized as the best-of-the-best in our craft—earning numerous awards along the way.