waterfalls

Poolside Panache
When a backyard has a swimming pool, homeowners generally want their watershape to be a key visual component in the overall composition.  Too often, however - and this is particularly true of many of the older ones I see - the pool is unexciting both on its own and as part of the landscape. That's definitely not the style these days.  Homeowners either want to make a statement by having a pool that is a visual knockout complete with big rocks and grottos and waterfalls; or they want it to play a more understated role but be a major part of a
2014/8.1, August 6 — Rethinking Paradise, Perils of Plaster Dust, Poolside Decor and more
THE ESSENTIAL E-NEWSLETTER FOR WATERSHAPE DESIGNERS, ENGINEERS AND BUILDERS August 6, 2014 www.watershapes.com PROJECT PROFILE…
Current Systems Offers Literature on RiverFlow
Current Systems (Ventura, CA) has published a full-color brochure on its RiverFlow swim current/lazy river/waterfall…
2014/3.2, March 19 — Shimmering Sculpture, Pond Allure, Hilltop Grandeur and more
March 19, 2014 www.watershapes.com ESSENTIAL Glass Works Exploring the synergy among glass, light and water…
Avoiding ‘Dead Spots’
Just the term “dead spot” sounds bad on its own – and that’s probably a good thing, because it’s definitely something every watershaper should try to avoid. That can be tough these days, given the complex shapes of modern swimming pools and their multiple curves, inlets, grottos, vanishing edges, beach entries, tanning shelves and various other features that complicate the interior contours of the shell. To get the job done, you need to
Completely Contemporary
It’s a rare project in which a watershaper has the opportunity to execute a complete design without compromise. In our Scottsdale, Ariz.-based business, we often work with upscale clients on custom pool and spa installations, and it seems that there’s always some element or other in the design that ends up being altered or left out.  It sometimes reaches the point where we start to feel as though
Rethinking a Pond?
It’s accepted wisdom in the pond business that most homeowners who get bitten by the watergardening bug will commonly own three ponds before they’re truly satisfied.  They’ll start with a simple, small pond and work up through an intermediate stage before acquiring a large, full-featured pond that reflects their growing confidence and competence in 
Embraced by Yosemite
I’ve just returned from a mini-break in which my wife Judy and I and two friends spent two-and-a-half days scrambling around Yosemite National Park. Six months ago, we had reserved a campsite near Lake May, thinking
The Calming Magic of Waterfalls
Videos: To watch videos of four of the world’s most famous, most beautiful waterfalls — with all the stunning images accompanied by music — click on the links
Everyone’s Garden
When Chicago Botanic Garden opened its gates in 1972, those on hand faced the same situation as those who come today:  They will never see nor experience the garden alike on any two occasions. For decades, we have personally and carefully watched this remarkable property grow.  Along the way, we’ve have shared some of the most profound experiences we’ve ever had in our lives:  Both the water elements and the gardens constantly conspire (in the literal sense of the word), breathing as one to create spaces of remarkable beauty, tranquility and diversity.  It is truly our slice of heaven on earth. For years now, we have visited the Garden almost every week to refuel our bodies and refresh our minds.  We’ll generally start with a light lunch at the Garden Café, sometimes in the company of a client or with work materials we enjoy discussing in this stimulating environment.   Part of the joy we experience comes from