With this patio design, you pretty much have the best of everything... a built-in shade tree, a tranquil pond, and a soothing waterfall.
It might take a bit more work and planning, but the end result is definitely worth the effort!
Building The Patio...
Establish layout and prep ground for concrete slab, making certain to allow for the holes that will accommodate tree, plants, and pond area.
Install concrete forms.
Place cement. Place rebar for planter, 2 on each side, set 2-1/2 to 3 inches deep (just enough to keep it from moving).
Finish cement. Once cured, strip forms.
Dig out pond area (to whatever depth you prefer) and install pond liner.
Trim pond liner to allow 1' overlap. Glue overlap to concrete. (If necessary, remove excess liner material at folds or creases. The objective is to get the liner to lie as flat as possible.)
Install flagstone in mortar in front of the pond. Install flagstone behind the pond (under the fountain area).
Install rocks in front of the pond (overlapping the flagstone).
Install 4x8x16 planter blocks and fill cells with cement.
