Awe-Inspiring Reflections From Man-Made Ponds
“I have, as it were, my own sun and moon and stars, and a little world all to myself.”
― Henry David Thoreau, Walden
At one time, enjoying something as relaxing and restful as reflections in a pond was occasioned by a lake-side holiday or visit to the mountains. However, with the growth in popularity of backyard escapes/oases, homeowners, in increasing numbers, are bring that experience home.
Indeed, there is something mystical and restive in pausing alongside pristine still water. It is especially restorative to study the reflections of the surroundings that such water throws back — including distant delights like the clouds and the moon.
As a student of nature and avid outdoor enthusiast, Deck and Patio’s Outdoor Living Expert, Bill Renter, believes that water features such as man-made ponds, when correctly designed, positioned, and constructed, can provide a transforming experience in one’s life: a ‘little world all to oneself’ to paraphrase Thoreau.
The following two projects are such examples.
― Henry David Thoreau, Walden
At one time, enjoying something as relaxing and restful as reflections in a pond was occasioned by a lake-side holiday or visit to the mountains. However, with the growth in popularity of backyard escapes/oases, homeowners, in increasing numbers, are bring that experience home.
Indeed, there is something mystical and restive in pausing alongside pristine still water. It is especially restorative to study the reflections of the surroundings that such water throws back — including distant delights like the clouds and the moon.
As a student of nature and avid outdoor enthusiast, Deck and Patio’s Outdoor Living Expert, Bill Renter, believes that water features such as man-made ponds, when correctly designed, positioned, and constructed, can provide a transforming experience in one’s life: a ‘little world all to oneself’ to paraphrase Thoreau.
The following two projects are such examples.
Reflecting Pond
This vanishing edge pond, like the project’s second smaller pond, is more than a reflecting pond; it’s also a swimming pond — part of a pristine Deck and Patio backyard oasis that includes the two ponds, a stream, and waterfalls. (See also next 3 photos).
Vanishing Edge Pond
Sunset is a magnificent time to mediate on the illusions created by the reflecting pond’s placid water. The water mirrors its surroundings so perfectly, it can be a challenge to tell the real sky, ocean, and landscape from their reflections.
Reflecting Pond
The smaller of the two ponds is just steps outside the homeowners’ back door. Note how beautiful the back of the house is captured in the pond and reflected back.
Pond Stepping Stones
Stepping stones across vanishing edge pond bring you up close to the images created in the water. Bend down, gently pass your hand through its stillness, and watch the reflections ripple. If there’s a better pastime, we’ve never come across it.
Man-Made Ponds
Landscape design is an essential element in bringing about beautiful reflections and peaceful scenes. Deck and Patio’s Bill Renter used Mother Nature’s own creations — plants, moss rocks, and the water itself, to design a true mystical experience for this project.
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3 of 4 comments
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Pam, we agree wholeheartedly. We have created over 300 ponds across Long Island and many are small, but still charming creations. This was a special post focusing on some extraordinary reflections captured in photos. Note: This coming Thursday, our post will be focusing on ponds more broadly.
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How do I keep my pond clear in summer...it's so full of algae I can't see my Koi ! I bought a new expensive filter and pump but it's only helping a little. I've bought expensive products that promise to clear the water and don't work ! I call the manufactor to ask for a refund and they refused! HELP !! I live in Texas on the Gulf Coast so our heat is really bad in summer with mild winters. I want to see my fish !
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