Can You Turn an Existing Pond Into a Water Feature?
If you have an existing garden pond that no longer works for you, you don’t necessarily need to remove it and start again.
In many cases, an existing pond can be transformed into something completely different — from a flowing garden waterfall or stream to a decorative water feature with an urn, sphere or spillway.
At Olympian Water Gardens, we regularly look at ways to improve and transform existing ponds and water features across Manchester, Stockport, Cheshire and Tameside.
What can you do with an existing pond?
There are several options, depending on the condition, shape and construction of the existing pond.
Sometimes the best solution is to keep the pond and improve it. A properly designed waterfall or stream can completely change the appearance of a tired garden pond, while also adding the sound and movement of flowing water.
In other situations, the homeowner may no longer want a traditional pond at all. Perhaps they don’t want fish, don’t want the maintenance associated with a pond, or simply want something that fits better with the style of their garden.
That’s where converting an existing pond into a water feature can be a great option.
Turning a pond into a water feature
We recently had an enquiry about exactly this.
The existing pond was constructed on two levels, and rather than automatically removing everything, the idea was to look at how much of the existing structure could be retained.
If the existing liner is still in good condition, it may be possible to keep it and adapt the pond into a new water feature.
For example, the existing pond can potentially become the underground reservoir for a recirculating water feature. AquaBlox can be used to create a strong, lightweight void within the reservoir, reducing the amount of water needed while providing support for the feature above.
A decorative urn, sphere, spillway or other water feature can then become the focal point, with water continuously recirculating through the system. The finished result can look completely different from the original pond.
Adding a waterfall to an existing pond
Another option is to keep the pond itself and introduce a waterfall. This can be particularly effective if the existing pond is structurally sound but lacks movement or visual interest.
A natural stone waterfall can be designed to flow into the existing pond, creating a much stronger focal point and adding the sound of moving water to the garden.
Depending on the space available, it may also be possible to create a small stream or multiple waterfall drops rather than a single cascade.
A well-designed garden waterfall isn’t just about getting water from one place to another. The rocks, planting, proportions and way the water flows all contribute to making it look like a natural part of the garden.
Does the existing liner have to be removed?
Not always. One of the first things we look at when renovating an existing pond is the condition of what is already there.
If the liner is suitable and hasn’t deteriorated or been damaged, retaining it may be a practical option. The existing pond can then potentially be adapted rather than completely rebuilt.
However, every pond is different. The shape, depth, liner condition, surrounding construction, access and existing plumbing all need to be considered before deciding whether the existing pond can be reused.
Sometimes starting again is the better option — but it’s not something that should automatically be assumed.
What if you don’t want fish anymore?
This is another reason people consider changing an existing pond. A traditional fish pond can be beautiful, but it isn’t right for everyone. Some homeowners simply want the sound and movement of water without having a large pond to look after.
Converting the existing pond into a decorative water feature or pondless-style feature can provide that experience in a different way. You can still have the sound of flowing water, natural stone and planting, or introduce a more contemporary feature such as a sphere or urn.
It can completely change how the space is used and enjoyed. Explore our garden water features service.
From an old pond to a new water garden
Sometimes an existing pond just needs a little attention. Other times, it needs a complete transformation.
A pond renovation might involve improving circulation and filtration, adding a waterfall, reshaping the edges or introducing natural stone.
For a more substantial transformation, we can design a completely new ecosystem pond with features such as a skimmer, biological filtration, waterfalls and natural stonework.
The important thing is to look at the garden as a whole and work out what will suit the space and the homeowner.
You don’t always need to start again
If you have an existing pond that you’re no longer happy with, don’t assume that the only option is to dig it out and replace everything. There may be a much better way to transform what you already have.
Whether you want to add a natural garden waterfall, create a flowing stream, convert an old pond into a decorative water feature or completely redesign the space as an ecosystem pond, there are plenty of possibilities.
At Olympian Water Gardens, we design and build bespoke ecosystem ponds, garden ponds, garden waterfalls, streams and water features throughout Manchester, Stockport, Cheshire, Tameside and the surrounding areas.
