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When Pat and Beulah first commissioned Hanselman Landscape to incorporate a natural streambed and waterfall into the garden design for their pool renovation, they were thinking primarily of their grandchildren. They were envisioning a waterfall area large enough so that children (and adults) could swim under the cascade and stand behind the sheet of water that spills from the boulder-lined stream above the falls. It was their desire to incorporate fun for children and space for grown-up entertainment in a naturally beautiful setting. These goals were accomplished magnificently in what they often refer to as their “garden oasis”.
In addition to providing outdoor fun for children, the pool garden presents a stunning visual and auditory backdrop for all manner of “grown-up” entertainment—from intimate family dinners in the gazebo, to lavish wedding receptions on the spacious patio. Even for those inside, the water feature and surrounding plantings display a continuously glorious and ever-changing gallery of artwork, framed by large windows in all of the main rooms of the house.
Although Pat and Beulah planned the garden oasis for the enjoyment of their grandchildren, their family, and their friends, they have been surprised—time and again—by the joy they, too, experience in this beautiful place. In fact, their garden has become even more precious and therapeutic as they age and as “life changes” become the norm. When it is not being used for weddings, family gatherings, and church youth group parties, the couple often retreats to the garden for the refreshment and tranquility it extends. In the summer, in fact, it becomes Pat’s remote office. It is not unusual to see him out there in a comfortable chair participating in conference calls over the phone, or at a table in the gazebo surrounded by business partners. What was originally designed for his grandchildren has become his favorite “room”! Over the years, the blessing Pat and Beulah intended for others has become an increasingly valuable tonic for them, too!
For all of life’s stages—babies in “floaties”, rowdy summer camp kids, prom beauties and their tuxedoed dates being photographed beside the falls, brides and grooms dancing in candlelight, and anniversary guests celebrating the silvers and golds—the waterfall garden is truly a living legacy of joy and beauty.