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WATER GARDENS


A water garden, which is also called an outdoor pond or backyard pond, is a combination of elements brought together to create a backyard paradise. The pond itself, waterfalls, trees, shrubs, aquatic plants, night lighting and koi fish are all equally important factors. Outdoor Magic is the premier design and installation company of water gardens in New York (NY), New Jersey (NJ) and Connecticut (CT).

Water gardens originated in Japan and the cultural and historical point of water gardens is simplicity, clarity of mind and body, and enlightenment. The fundamental purpose of any Japanese-inspired water garden is to create harmony and balance in order to produce a calming effect. Japanese-inspired water gardens are based on natural renderings of nature. They are intended to express spiritual values and philosophies of Japanese principles by integrating essential elements, including stones, water, plants, bridges, and ornaments. Each one of these particular elements is placed in the garden for a reason and each has a specific meaning.

Stones are used to symbolize mountains and islands. They express the human emotions of strength and endurance. The stones are generally the first element placed in the water garden. Most are positioned in odd numbers (3, 5, 7, etc.) and are grouped together in a triangular arrangement. They can be used as sculptures or given a function, such as stepping stones for paths and walkways. Pathways are typically designed to guide others through the garden and are symbolic of a person’s journey through life. Most are made up of either groupings of stones, gravel, or sand. These can be set in raked gravels or a mossy surrounding. Stones give the garden a lasting quality.

Water plays a significant part in most every water garden and is usually the heart of your garden. It entices the feeling of serenity and symbolizes purity. At Outdoor Magic, we understand this concept very well, and always create the water source to appear as part of the natural setting. For instance, ponds should have a natural shape, waterfalls should depict those seen in nature (not in man-made fountains), and even streams should twist and turn in a natural way. Water symbols can either be actual water or gravel representations. The use of Japanese koi fish make an attractive decorative element in any water garden constructed for the purpose of their inclusion.

Bridges symbolize a journey. They represent the movement from one world into another and are a common Japanese theme. Stone bridges can make an exceptional accent – either crossing a small stream or a gravel river. Bridges can also be placed as a path through a deep bed of plants.

Water gardens maintain respect for nature and an appreciation for everyday objects. In NY, NJ and CT, Outdoor Magic pays great attention to detail in designing, installing and maintaining water gardens so that they can be enjoyed at all times of the year. Call us at (845) 398-2116 to discuss your water garden project.


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