Pond Design: Perhaps one the most difficult but truly critical aspects of building a pond is where we put it. The whole point behind doing this in the first place is to be able to see it and enjoy it.  So if we put it off somewhere in the “back 40” we might as well save ourselves the trouble. Ideally, the pond will sit where we can see it from the house all year ‘round. We may need to remove an old concrete patio or demolish or remodel a deck or even transplant or remove some existing plants or trees, but it will be worth it in the long run. Deciding just where it will go and what it might look like will take some imagination but that can be helped by using a rope or garden hose or even spreading lime to outline the pond’s perimeter on the ground. Then, viewing it over several days from many angles from rooms in the house as well as from the surrounding property will help in deciding the ideal spot.

Waterfalls and Streams: If you plan on having a waterfall and/or stream be sure to place this so that it faces you in your favorite area. You want to be able to view and hear the waterfall and stream so designing them so that the water flows towards you is best. If your design incorporates a stream try to create it so that it winds and bends throughout. Straight shot streams  don't look as natural as a stream that meanders throughout the landscape. Also keep in the mind the height of your waterfall. I've seen to many people try to create a 7 or 8 foot high waterfall in the flattest yard imaginable and not be happy with the outcome. Create your waterfall with a natural looking berm around it so that it doesn't look manufactured. Creating the berm around the waterfall will tie it nicely to the overall project and will allow additional space for plantings.

Sunlight and Shade: Most aquatic plants require an average of six hours of sunlight per day to achieve full beauty.  If your pond will receive less than four hours per day of sunlight then you will be limited on the number and types of aquatic plants but you also will have less problems with algae growth. A pond located beneath trees should also have a skimmer box as a mechanical filter so that the debris that falls into the pond can be easily removed.

Size and Shape: The size of a pond is crucial to its overall impact on the landscape and the homeowners' pleasure. We always recommend you go as large as your property and budget allows. You may find yourself renovating your pond a few times if you don't go so large. It’s always cheaper and easier to build your last pond first.

Final Note:  When it comes to building a pond it is better to hire a professional.  If you are a going to tackle this project on your own it best to hire a Pond Construction Expert for a consultation so they can give you a lot of tips and pointers so you don't run into any major problems.