Koi Pond and Waterfall in a Wooded and Steep Backyard
Is your outdoor space a little out of the ordinary? Many yards in southern California are wooded or have a steep hills. Today, we’re discussing a landscape design for both challenges in the same southern California backyard. Building a koi pond with a waterfall in a steep and wooded Malibu backyard.
Our Goal was to design a lush, semi-tropical landscape with a natural water feature. The home owner wanted to build a water feature that greeted them with the soothing sights and sounds of a stunning water feature. By using the natural contours of the yard DreamScapes designed a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The challenges of the outdoor space were one thing, but DreamScapes builds water features that complement your home and lifestyle perfectly.
This landscape design included a 14′ koi pond and a 15′ waterfall. This was the perfect size pond and waterfall to build, because it fit perfectly within the backyard. Our goal is always to create water features that look like they were always there. The landscape design included multiple paths that lead throughout the backyard that were created using concrete reinforced stone. We also created a stone stairway for the backyard paths. A complete landscape design includes paths, patios, sitting benches, plants and lighting.
Challenges to building a koi pond and waterfall in Malibu
To install this water feature, DreamScapes had to address the wooded area and uneven landscape. We started with clearing out a path from the home to the water feature’s location. After creating a path to carry the 80,000 pounds of materials into the back yard, we had the challenge of no heavy equipment access. This meant that we had to carry all materials down by hand using our large rock dolly. One the equipment and materials were in place, the uneven and sloped yard was ready for excavation. It is important for koi ponds in Malibu to keep the koi fish safe from predators. This pond has a hidden fish cave at the bottom for the koi fish to be safe.
Next was adding the landscape rocks and boulders to create the natural looking pond and waterfall. This water feature project used over 60,000 pounds of stone and other materials. Imagine moving 60,000 pounds of landscape rocks! In addition to boulders, we added an amazing stone bridge that goes over the pond and three sitting rocks. This lets you walk over and around this awesome water feature.
Finishing Touches for a Backyard Oasis
Final pieces of this amazing backyard oasis was landscaping and lighting installation. DreamScapes planted lush aquatic and semi-tropical plants around the pond and surrounding area. A backyard is only completed with landscape lighting. The entire pond and waterfall is beautifully lit with underwater pond and waterfall lights, landscape lights and pathway lights.
If you’re looking to transform your outdoor space with a beautiful water feature, look no further than DreamScapes. We will provide you with honest and manageable advice on the factors to consider when incorporating water elements into your outdoor oasis. Call for an appointment today and start discovering the secrets to creating your own backyard oasis.
Check Out the Videos of this Beautiful Malibu Water Feature Build