16 Oct How We Built an $80K Custom Pond in 2 Weeks (Mystery Marketplace, Ep. 2)
When you look out into your yard, do you feel a sense of peace, or is it more of a reminder of what could be? That’s exactly how Sandra and Larry felt when they looked out at their front yard. But with their 50th wedding anniversary approaching, they dreamed of transforming that space into something special—a place where they could celebrate all the years they’ve spent together and create new memories.
But let’s be real: it wasn’t just about making things pretty. Sandra and Larry had deeper reasons for wanting a transformation. Like many homeowners, they wanted an outdoor space where they could relax, reflect, and reconnect with nature. And like many, they were a little uncertain about how to pull it off. Would it be done in time? Would it be worth it? Would their vision even work?
If you’ve ever had similar concerns, you’re not alone. We’ve worked with many clients like Sandra and Larry who have big dreams for their yards but aren’t sure where to start. By the time you finish reading this, you’ll see how we took this simple front yard and turned it into a jaw-dropping pond and water feature—complete with a special surprise from Facebook Marketplace—and hopefully, you’ll feel inspired to reimagine your own outdoor space.
Changing the Design: From Simple to Spectacular
Believe it or not, Sandra and Larry’s project didn’t start as a massive pond. Initially, the plan was to create a simple stream. But as Sandra walked by our shop every day and admired the display pond, she started to dream bigger. Could they have a pond of their own? Maybe even with fish? After all, this was the couple’s 50th wedding anniversary—why not go all out?
That’s when we knew we had to rethink the design. Sandra had fallen in love with the idea of a tranquil, flowing pond that wrapped around the front of her house, giving her a beautiful view from her favorite spot on the front porch. But it couldn’t just be any pond. This pond had to blend seamlessly into the landscape while saving a beloved Maple tree and creating a path that naturally led visitors toward the backyard.
So, the simple stream grew into a 10×17 pond. But that was just the beginning. With each new design iteration, we added more features. By the end, the pond included two main sections: a smaller 10’x18’ area and a larger 18’x20’ area that had a deep section where fish could swim and hide. The larger area also had an intake filter that featured a stunning fountainscape with three urns—one large and two medium—that light up and flow beautifully. The two sections of the pond are connected by a unique boulder-bridge right in front of the porch door. What started as a modest vision had transformed into an absolutely epic water feature that we couldn’t wait to bring to life.
The Pond That Celebrates 50 Years of Love
Sandra and Larry’s story isn’t just about a pond. It’s about a lifetime of memories. They’d been married for 50 years, and as we worked through the design, it became clear that water had always been a significant part of their lives. From Larry’s work in the shipyard to Sandra’s love of nature, this pond was more than just a backyard addition—it was a symbol of their relationship.
But we had a big challenge: we only had 10 days to finish this transformation before their anniversary celebration. That meant everything had to run like clockwork. From the delivery of massive boulders to the installation of pumps and pavers, every detail had to fall into place if we were going to pull this off.
As we worked, we could feel the excitement building. Sandra and Larry had family members traveling from all over the country to celebrate with them, and the pond would be the star of the show. This wasn’t just an ordinary project—it was a 50-year love story in the making, and we were determined to make it perfect.
In any project, there are always hiccups, and this one was no different. The biggest challenge? Time. Originally, we planned for a 10×17 pond with a 14-foot stream, but as the design grew, so did the scope. Suddenly, we were dealing with over 109,000 pounds of materials, including boulders, gravel, pumps, and even a bridge made from large stone steppers. That’s a lot of material to move, especially on a tight schedule.
And then there was the weather. With rain in the forecast and the anniversary just days away, we had to pull together as a team. We called in help from every available crew member—hardscapers, landscapers, maintenance teams—everyone was on deck, working long days in the heat and rain to make sure we stayed on track. But no matter how challenging the conditions, we knew we had to push through.
The Mystery Marketplace Propeller: A Nautical Surprise
As the team worked on the pond, I decided to take things one step further. While browsing Facebook Marketplace, I stumbled across something that instantly made me think of Larry and Sandra—a vintage brass propeller. It wasn’t just a cool piece of décor. This propeller represented Larry’s years in the shipyard and Sandra’s family connection to the Navy. It was the perfect touch to tie the pond to their personal story.
When I showed it to Sandra, I could see the emotion in her eyes. She loved it. We talked about where to place the propeller, maybe behind the waterfall or near the stream, and decided that it would be a unique feature that added meaning to their pond. It wasn’t just a decoration—it was a tribute to the couple’s past and their journey together.
Bringing the Pond to Life: Hardscape and Water Features
As the final days approached, the pressure was on. The boulders finally arrived, but we had only two days left before guests would start arriving for the anniversary party. With the clock ticking, our team got to work, placing the boulders to create the pond’s natural edges and building the bridge that would allow guests to walk over the water.
We used Belgard’s Brooklyn pavers in Midnight Black to create a sleek walkway that led from the driveway to the front entrance. These pavers were laid in a herringbone pattern, adding a touch of elegance to the natural beauty of the pond. As we installed the pumps, BioFalls, and misters, the water started to flow, and suddenly, it all came together.
When Sandra and Larry first saw the finished pond, their reaction was priceless. Sandra, always the talkative one, was speechless. “I cried. I still want to cry,” she said, standing next to the waterfall that wrapped around her front porch. “This is my yard, right? This is my pond?”
For Larry, the highlight was the bridge. He loved watching the fish gather underneath, a perfect little spot where they could enjoy the water together. For Sandra, it was the sound of the waterfall that stole the show, creating a soothing backdrop as she sat on her porch, reflecting on the 50 years they had shared.
The Final Project Breakdown: Cost and Features
The initial budget for this project was $30,000, but as Sandra and Larry’s vision grew, so did the scope—and the final cost came in at over $80,000. Here’s how those costs broke down based on their choices:
1. Project Additions and Features
- Three Stack Slate Urns: $12,800
These tall, vertical water features were a key element, adding beauty and sound as water cascaded down the textured surfaces. - Scalloped Urn: $4,300
Another beautiful piece that contributed to the overall look and sound of the water feature, blending seamlessly into the pond. - 19-Inch Spillway Bowl: $1,780
This feature added a gentle flow of water, creating an elegant focal point within the pond. - 40-Inch Terra Cotta Patio Bowl: $2,320
A decorative addition, this bowl became a charming water element near the seating area.
- Three Stack Slate Urns: $12,800
2. Pumps and Filtration Systems
- Two 9000 GPH (Gallons Per Hour) Pumps: $1,999.98
These high-powered pumps kept the water moving efficiently throughout the large pond and stream. - Two BioFalls Systems: $6,220
The BioFalls systems helped with natural filtration, ensuring clean water for the pond’s fish and maintaining an overall healthy environment. - Two Misters: $668
These misters added a serene, fog-like atmosphere over the water, enhancing the tranquil ambiance.
- Two 9000 GPH (Gallons Per Hour) Pumps: $1,999.98
3. Hardscaping and Stream Features
- 220 Square Foot Paver Walkway: $4,800
The paver walkway was designed using Belgard’s Brooklyn 3×9 inch pavers in Midnight Black, laid in a herringbone pattern to complement the pond and create a seamless connection with the driveway. - Boulder Bridge: $3,100
This custom-built bridge created a stunning walkway over the pond, allowing guests to interact with the water below. - 18-Foot Stream: $13,500
The stream was an essential element, providing the gentle sound of flowing water and adding movement to the overall design. - Intake Bay with 13 Aqua Blocks: $5,400
The intake bay system helped manage the flow of water, preventing debris from clogging the pond’s filters. - Two Pump Vaults and a 25×50 Liner: $32,400
The liner and pump vaults were critical to keeping the pond watertight and ensuring long-lasting functionality for years to come.
- 220 Square Foot Paver Walkway: $4,800
But more than just the price tag, this pond was a celebration of a couple’s 50 years together. Every element, from the stone bridge to the vintage propeller, told a story about their life and the memories they had created along the way.
Why Custom Water Features Elevate Your Outdoor Space
For Sandra and Larry, their new pond wasn’t just a pretty addition to their yard. It was a place where they could relax, reflect, and reconnect with each other. Whether you want a simple stream or an epic water feature like theirs, a custom pond can transform your outdoor space into something truly special.
At Easton Outdoors, we specialize in creating personalized outdoor spaces that reflect your unique vision. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or just want a peaceful retreat in your own backyard, we’re here to help you bring that dream to life. Get outside, my friends.