There’s something powerful about building with stone.
Right now we’re in the middle of creating a space that brings together three of the most grounding elements: earth, water, and fire. This project features a natural flagstone patio, a custom boulder pond, and a built-in gas fire pit — all designed to feel like they’ve always belonged to the land.
Building the Foundation: The Flagstone Patio
We started with the patio — the anchor of the entire space.
We’re using irregular natural flagstone to keep things organic and timeless. Each piece is hand-placed and shaped to flow naturally, avoiding rigid lines and instead creating movement. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s harmony.
The patio will serve as:
A gathering space for family and friends A transition zone between home and nature A foundation that visually ties together the pond and fire pit
Proper base preparation is everything. Compacted stone, careful leveling, and intentional joint spacing ensure the patio won’t just look good — it will last.
The Heart of the Project: Custom Boulder Pond
This isn’t a pre-formed water feature.
The pond is being built with hand-selected natural boulders, placed one by one to create depth, character, and natural contours. Every rock has weight and intention.
We’re shaping:
Natural shelves for aquatic plants Strategic rock placements for biological filtration A balanced edge that blends seamlessly into the patio
Water brings movement and sound. It softens the stone. It changes the energy of the space completely.
When finished, the pond won’t look “installed.” It will feel discovered.
Fire to Balance the Water: Gas Fire Pit Installation
Opposite the pond, we’re installing a custom gas fire pit.
Fire adds contrast — warmth against cool water, light against reflection. The fire pit is being integrated into the stonework so it feels like part of the original design, not an afterthought.
Benefits of going gas:
Instant ignition Clean burn Minimal maintenance Easy control of flame height
The fire pit will create a natural gathering point in the evenings, especially once the water is lit and reflecting the flame.
Designing for Flow & Experience
This project isn’t about features. It’s about experience.
When someone steps into this backyard, they’ll hear water before they see it. They’ll feel the grounding presence of stone underfoot. As evening comes, firelight will reflect across the pond’s surface.
We design these spaces intentionally — to slow people down. To create connection. To bring people outside.
Where We Are Now
We’re currently:
Finishing major stone placement on the patio Setting and leveling the larger structural boulders Rough-in installing the gas line for the fire pit
Next steps include fine detailing, plant integration, and lighting — which will completely transform the space after dark.
Check back for more progress pictures!
Or give us a call
We’d love to help!
Jacob
828-301-8017
Serving Asheville, Nc and the surrounding area.
Including:
Asheville
Hendersonville
Weaverville
Biltmore Forest
Arden
And the greater Buncombe County area
Living Waters Landscaping LLC 