A Pond in Vermont

Overview of the - A Pond in Vermont The 'A Pond in Vermont' was designed by Julie Moir Messervy Design Studio (JMMDS) in rural Vermont to provide support for the communities of Alstead, Bellows Falls, and Chester. JMMDS took a gentle sloped area and transformed the landscape into a fabulous aquatic feature that greatly improved the site's natural environment. The main concept was to create a pond that would look wonderful and could also preserve the ecological balance of the whole area. The pond, which has a natural impervious liner, was constructed using high-quality materials to resist decay and would promote a delicate ecological harmony amongst emerging local wildlife. Native plantings were integrated into the design to offer a seasonal variety of colors and textures, including unique options such as water lilies along with local brittle grasses and sedges. One of the design challenges was how to negotiate the site drainage and recognize the seasonal rate of drawdown for the existing site pond. The design team cleverly planned a drainage strategy using well-placed bioswales and a rain garden so the runoff would fill the existing diverted drainage underground and protect the installed pond's water level. The runoff also helped in preserving the plants surrounding the new pond feature. There were other unexpected local resources used to enhance both the pond's edge and the path to access the pond (and other related areas), including the local Vermont stone directly obtained from the area. This proximity to locally obtained stone for both edges satisfied the wish to remain authentic, and the attempt was successful in keeping the character of the existing Vermont landscape. The seating options (for resting) also satisfied the original design objectives, as the seating areas were crafted from reclaimed barn wood (or whatever the designers could find). In the end, and most importantly, the final finished is one which exceeded the client's wildest expectations, resulting in a beautiful landscape. The sounds of soothing water, the lush flora, and the colors surrounding the pond offer and promote relaxation for thoughtful gazes. 'A Pond in Vermont' offers not just a simple wonderful landscape, but celebrates both the existing natural beauty and a sustainable ecology in Vermont, improving clients and surrounding community living.