reviving a backyard sanctuary: low-maintenance landscaping, a koi pond, and a pollinator-friendly garden

sometimes, life gets busy, and the backyard that once brought so much joy starts to feel like a chore. i recently met with a couple who love the outdoors but have found themselves avoiding their once-beautiful backyard. years ago, they had a thoughtfully designed space filled with perennials, pollinator-friendly plants, and a small pond. over time, weeds from a neighboring property crept in, and maintaining it all became overwhelming. instead of the inviting retreat it once was, their yard became a reminder of all the work it needed.

now, they’re ready for a fresh start—something beautiful but low-maintenance, a space they can actually enjoy without feeling like it’s just another item on their to-do list. we’re designing a backyard that blends effortless beauty with function. they want a cutting garden for fresh flowers, native plantings to attract birds, butterflies, and bees, and an extra stone seating area where they can relax and take it all in. we’re also incorporating a natural stone pathway to lead through the space, encouraging movement and connection with the garden.

one of the most exciting elements is the pond. they had a small one before, but this time, we’re going bigger and deeper so they can keep koi. the construction process will focus on creating a sustainable ecosystem—deep enough for the fish to thrive year-round, with proper filtration and a mix of shallow and deep zones for aquatic plants. choosing the right stone is key, both for structural integrity and aesthetics. we’ll be selecting natural stone that complements the landscape, ensuring it blends seamlessly with the surroundings. around the pond, we’ll plant a mix of ornamental grasses, flowering perennials, and water-loving plants that will provide texture, movement, and seasonal interest.

this project is all about transformation—bringing life back into a space that was once loved but has since been neglected. it’s about creating a backyard that invites them outside again, whether to sip coffee by the pond, cut fresh flowers for the kitchen, or just watch the birds and butterflies return. i can’t wait to see this space come to life again!