Creating a Back Yard Waterfall and Spa Garden
Hawaii Remodeling, January, 1999
"Start with the natural tranquility of a cascading waterfall, as it tumbles playfully into a heated whirlpool. Surround it with heaping portions of the unique vegetation found in lush tropical gardens. Use low voltage spotlights to reflect light off the cascading water and accentuate the surrounding palms. Add ample servings of people. And - voila -- you have just created the ultimate in back yard beauty, entertainment and relaxation.
A Kapolei family wanted to trasform their back yard into a place to relax in beautiful, calm surroundings. That was their vision. And it had to be a low maintenance project. They faced the modern family's dilemma - they needed quality family entertainment, but could not spend a lot of time "getting there or staying there." Hokuahi Lawns, Inc. helped them achieve the proper balance.
Initially, we had designed this back yard water-feature as a water fall pond, the focal point off the rear patio. As we dug the outline of the pond, however, the homeowners requested that a waterfall and heated spa be created instead.
By adding a larger pump, we were able to accommodate the required air jets, a spa filter and a heat pump. The reinforced concrete basin was covered with a water proof sealant, and then finished with a deep blue-colored tile.
A variety of mature palms, and several other mature plantings, created a visually dramatic effect. We added vibrant colors to the garden with various plantings, such as Liriope, red and pink Ginger, red Ti, Bromeliads, Azaleas and Irises. Dwarf Mondo grass was used along the edges of the quartzite deck, because of its neatness and dark green density.
We used the Rainbird sprinkler system - with sup-ground, pop-up, heads - to improve safety around the spa area and prevent broken sprinkler heads. Pathway lights, another safety feature, created an additional visual effect at night. Finally, we wrapped this intimate, heated, water-feature with a high-mounded fern grotto.
In just two weeks, Hokuahi Lawns constructed a "rest and relaxation" area this lucky
family can enjoy at any time of the day or night. More importantly, we helped them achieve their dream."
"Start with the natural tranquility of a cascading waterfall, as it tumbles playfully into a heated whirlpool. Surround it with heaping portions of the unique vegetation found in lush tropical gardens. Use low voltage spotlights to reflect light off the cascading water and accentuate the surrounding palms. Add ample servings of people. And - voila -- you have just created the ultimate in back yard beauty, entertainment and relaxation.
A Kapolei family wanted to trasform their back yard into a place to relax in beautiful, calm surroundings. That was their vision. And it had to be a low maintenance project. They faced the modern family's dilemma - they needed quality family entertainment, but could not spend a lot of time "getting there or staying there." Hokuahi Lawns, Inc. helped them achieve the proper balance.
Initially, we had designed this back yard water-feature as a water fall pond, the focal point off the rear patio. As we dug the outline of the pond, however, the homeowners requested that a waterfall and heated spa be created instead.
By adding a larger pump, we were able to accommodate the required air jets, a spa filter and a heat pump. The reinforced concrete basin was covered with a water proof sealant, and then finished with a deep blue-colored tile.
A variety of mature palms, and several other mature plantings, created a visually dramatic effect. We added vibrant colors to the garden with various plantings, such as Liriope, red and pink Ginger, red Ti, Bromeliads, Azaleas and Irises. Dwarf Mondo grass was used along the edges of the quartzite deck, because of its neatness and dark green density.
We used the Rainbird sprinkler system - with sup-ground, pop-up, heads - to improve safety around the spa area and prevent broken sprinkler heads. Pathway lights, another safety feature, created an additional visual effect at night. Finally, we wrapped this intimate, heated, water-feature with a high-mounded fern grotto.
In just two weeks, Hokuahi Lawns constructed a "rest and relaxation" area this lucky
family can enjoy at any time of the day or night. More importantly, we helped them achieve their dream."
