OUTSIDE

Joe Swift: How to build a beautiful garden pond

From choosing the best site to planting and materials
It is best to keep the shape of your pond simple
It is best to keep the shape of your pond simple
GARDEN EXPOSURES

I find that ponds are often right up there on most people’s lists as desirable garden features. It’s understandable — they can take the layers of interest to another level, bringing in movement, reflection of the sky and surrounding plants, and a soothing, cooling presence to the garden when the days get warmer. Moving water introduces sound and most ponds are a magnet for wildlife too. I love my pond and couldn’t imagine the garden without it.

They do require careful planning to succeed, however. A mistake here and there can lead to disappointment and a cry of, “Oh, I should have done that” — I’ve seen it many times. As a designer I always use specialist contractors to install any form of water, but