A few months ago I wrote a blog on the combined use of metal and stonework in the garden and how they make a wonderful duet together. In it, I highlighted a water feature we installed at a client’s home in Dahlonega, complete with stone steps, a cascading stream, and beautiful custom black iron railing. I wanted to tell you more about this waterfall and how it came to be. It took a lot of hard work and customization but in the end the client was gushing with joy.
The client first contacted us because they wanted to install a water feature in their backyard but they needed some guidance as to where it would go and what exactly would fit best in the space. After coming out to the property and seeing what we had to work with, we found the perfect spot for a waterfall.
- The existing stairs had to go anyway. They were already uneven and unsafe for our older clients to be walking down. Why not replace them with something practical yet beautiful?
- The hillside provided an opportunity for water to flow downwards. The current landscape was also pretty basic with juniper and one over-pruned holly tree. This gave us a blank canvas to play with and make unique.
- On the left side of the above image you can see the client’s tall and magnificent crape myrtle, a Natchez crape to be exact. In addition to the beauty of its elegant dark bark and small dotted white flowers, we knew the crape myrtle would provide wonderful shade to the stream while enhancing the natural look of the stone.
- Finally, the spot was right next to the client’s patio. This would ensure the tranquil sounds of flowing water being heard from the deck along with clear visibility of the scenery. You see, these clients were also animal lovers and were excited by the idea of their water feature drawing in deer, frogs, caterpillars, bees… You name it – they were here for it!
