La Cañada Koi Pond Stream & Deckside Firepit Retreat

Landscape Construction
La Cañada Flintridge

This La Cañada backyard renovation is what happens when you take a slope and treat it like an opportunity instead of a limitation.

Rather than trying to flatten the space or hide the grade, we leaned into it and built a layered water garden that naturally follows the downhill flow. The yard is anchored by two koi ponds connected by a stream and waterfalls, with gathering spaces at both the top and bottom—so the landscape feels like a journey, not just a single patio with a feature.

A stream that organizes the entire yard

The stream becomes the backbone of the design. It starts near the upper entertaining area and steps down the slope in a series of short cascades. Along the way, it creates sound, movement, and that calm “you can hear the water everywhere” feeling that instantly changes how the space feels.

Because the ponds are separated into two basins, each area has its own personality—one more active with falling water, the other calmer and perfect for sitting and watching the koi glide by.

Two koi ponds, each with its own moment

At the lower end, the koi pond is designed as a true destination. Lily pads, rock edges, and layered planting give it a natural look, while still keeping it clean and intentional. It’s the kind of spot that pulls people outside even when they weren’t planning to be—coffee in the morning, a glass of wine in the evening, or just a quick pause to watch the fish.

A deck that “hangs over” the water

One of the best parts of the project is the Trex deck seating area that extends over the edge of the lower pond. It creates that rare feeling of being in the water garden rather than just looking at it from a distance.

With the firepit centered in the seating area, it becomes the go-to spot at night: warm flames in the foreground, koi pond reflections below, and the sound of the stream in the background. It’s cozy, a little dramatic, and totally unique.

Entertaining at the top, retreat at the bottom

At the top of the slope, the outdoor kitchen sets the yard up for real hosting. It’s close to the house, easy for serving and grilling, and it overlooks the stream so the water becomes part of the experience even when you’re cooking.

From there, the landscape leads you down to the quieter, more intimate lower seating zone—essentially giving the homeowners two outdoor rooms: one for groups, one for unwinding.

Before & After