Blog & Resources
Expert tips, seasonal guides, and inspiration for your water garden, koi pond, natural pool, and more.
January 21, 2019
Top 3 Facts About Natural Pools
There’s no denying that backyard swimming pools unlock the potential for endless summer fun and quality family time, but they come with a host of drawbacks. From chemicals that harm the environment (and swimmers) to a tight maintenance schedule, standard swimming pools are no longer the best choice for homeowners. Instead, opt for a more…
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January 7, 2019
Top 10 Misconceptions About Koi Ponds
Created by the Chinese centuries ago, Koi ponds are known for their tranquility and beauty — and of course, for containing koi. Koi fish are a colorful carp that are ideal backyard pets because they are social, playful, and hardy, but sometimes they get a varied reputation. For homeowners considering or on the fence about…
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October 23, 2018
Backyard Pond with Natural Swimming Pool and Beach
Chicago North Shore Recreational Pond Project This project began when a family living on the Chicago North Shore decided they wanted to completely redesign their backyard. They were yearning for a recreational pond where their kids could swim and play in the sand while remaining in the comfort of their backyard. They also wanted…
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October 16, 2018
9 Ways to Make Your Pool Eco-Friendly
Having a pool in your backyard has its perks: It can increase the value of your home, add to your backyard’s aesthetics, and serve as a built-in source of constant fun and recreation for your family. After all, what’s better than a cool pool on a hot summer day? As much as we love our…
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October 5, 2018
8 Backyard Ideas to Transform Your Backyard into an Oasis
Want to transform your backyard into an oasis? Here are 8 features you can add to your backyard that will make you feel like you are living in the heart of nature. Water gardens are excellent, minimal maintenance water features that can bring aquatic plants and exotic wildlife to your backyard. They will make you…
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September 24, 2018
How Koi Ponds Are Designed and Constructed
Have you ever wanted to improve your backyard with the serenity of the far east? Or perhaps you want a beautiful alternative to the simple foliage growing behind your home? If so, a koi pond might be the perfect solution. The landscaping professionals at Reflections have successfully designed and installed countless of these koi ponds…
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July 16, 2018
Dream Backyard with Incredible Koi Pond
This Chicago homeowner found Reflections through a local koi pond club during their annual tour of homes with koi ponds. He came to us starry eyed, with a lifelong dream of having a koi pond in his backyard. Reflections had the exciting task of starting with a blank slate, since the homeowner’s double lot was…
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June 13, 2018
Complete Water Garden Redesign with 4 Breathtaking Waterfalls
This homeowner came to us by way of another contractor who was in the process of remodeling their swimming pool and backyard. However, they still had an old pond and waterfall with a horrible leak that needed transforming. Not only was the water feature falling apart, but the homeowners thought it was unattractive compared to…
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April 10, 2018
Reflections Water Gardens Featured in Quintessential Barrington Magazine
DESIGNING BARRINGTON LIFESTYLES LARRY CARNES GREW UP near Barrington and as a young man, found himself interested in art, architecture, and landscape design while in school. Today, he uses those interests and honed skills in a business he owns that specializes in custom water gardens, ponds, waterfalls, and natural swimming ponds. He even creates manmade…
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October 11, 2017
How Are Natural Pools Safe and Clean to Swim In?
With research suggesting the harmful environmental and health effects of traditional, chemically treated pools, more and more people are turning to alternatives, such as natural pools. They are not only better for the environment and your health, but they also more visually appealing than traditional pools. With a natural pool you get to have a…
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September 14, 2017
4 Backyard Water Designs to Turn Your Yard into a Paradise
Do you have dreams of living in the middle of a rain forest, far away from the rest of the world? Does the thought of being surrounded by nature sound peaceful and calming to you? Water is the best way to bring complete tranquility to your backyard. Here are 4 backyard water designs to turn…
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August 3, 2017
5 Reasons Natural Pools are Better Than Traditional Pools
You are building your dream home and have decided that it needs a pool. Maybe you think a chlorinated pool will be the easiest way to go, but need to know more because it is a big decision that will affect you, your family, and the environment. Here are 5 benefits of natural pools that…
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