Would you swim in a pool without chlorine? Would you swim in a pond with natural filtration? Today, we're diving into the world of recreational ponds, specifically one that's naturally filtered, making it safe and enjoyable for swimming without harsh chemicals. In this blog post, we’re taking a look at the step-by-step construction of a naturally filtered rec pond in Gloucester, Virginia, offering you an enchanting escape into the beauty of nature while enjoying a chemical-free swimming experience.

​If you’re thinking about replacing a driveway or installing a new patio for your outdoor space, you’re probably looking at all of the options and wondering which choice is going to be best for you. In this post we teamed up with our friend Adam from Commercial Concrete to talk about six important differences for you to consider when comparing concrete versus pavers.
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It's 2022! After a crazy couple years, life around the home has changed a little. We've seen a shift to stay-cations and less travel. Smaller groups and entertaining at home became more frequent. The shift started as a temporary measure, we've seen it become more a way of life.

The Aquascape Lifestyles Inspiration Guide can help imagine how that home entertainment can happen. Pictures of spaces with water features, koi ponds, fountains, and garden ponds from the simple to the more complex. While looking through the pictures, note how the water features, patios, and homes flow and connect to create an outdoor space. Many feel effortless, the design or any of these spaces is to fit the end user.

If you entertain frequently but with only one or two other couples/friends, a large drawn out space isn't needed. Maybe something with multiple small seating areas creating different vantages and vistas of the yard. If you entertain infrequent but with large groups, creating an intimate feel for the  the morning coffee or evening wine location is important while keeping the space open and accessible from the home.

Hopefully you can find some inspiration here, and have a fantastic New Year!

You're looking at $8,000 to $50,000, maybe more if you want a fancy pizza oven.

Basic grill islands with counter space are a straightforward addition to just about any patio or existing outdoor area, and the sky's the limit from there! Updates like a refrigerator, sink, underlights, bar area, or even a TV (getting excited here!) will take your space to the next level, and could very well add another zero to the price as well. ​

Spring is in the air!  It's time to plant grass! 

Actually, it's not. 
[Did you hear the sound of that record scratching?!]

To clarify- you can definitely plant grass in the spring, but you may not get the long term results you're hoping for. The best time to plant cool season grasses (fescue) in the fall. The cooler temperatures we have during the fall months allow the grass to germinate, establish, and build strong roots through the winter. 

When grass seed is planted in the spring, however, your new lawn can’t catch a break before the summer heat kicks in. The grass seed will look great and fill in well, but because the roots aren't fully established, the heat will stress the new fescue plants. The density of the grass will then fall off during the summer, and patchy areas can form, requiring more seed.

Growing a lawn takes time, so don't give up when you don't see immediate results. If you're starting from scratch, be ready for it to take 18-24 months to fully establish. If you already have some existing healthy turf, expect about a year to get it built up. Here are some ways to ensure that when springtime comes, your yard is looking its best.