We've earned 5/5★ across 46+ Google reviews for world-class ponds, waterfalls, fountains, and ecosystem filtration. Based in Tennessee, serving the Eastern and Southeastern United States as our core region, while completing award-winning projects nationwide — from Virginia to Florida, across Tennessee and the Carolinas, and as far afield as Colorado, Oregon, and North Dakota. Below are hand-picked reviews that speak to the artistry, engineering, and long-term reliability clients count on.
★★★★★5.0/5 average • 46+ current Google reviews • Hundreds of client reviews across platforms since 1998
"I told my wife I wanted to build a mountain stream in our yard… and that's exactly what Modern Design Aquascaping delivered. The artistry, attention to detail, and flow of the water is everything I imagined—and more. I find myself just sitting outside, listening and watching in complete peace. The team was respectful, timely, and deeply skilled. It's changed the feel of our entire property. This isn't just landscaping—it's living art."
"What an outstanding experience it's been having these gentlemen design and build my water feature in our back yard. From the initial consultation to the final touch-ups, every aspect of the project was handled with professionalism and care. The attention to detail is remarkable, and the finished product exceeded all expectations. I cannot recommend them highly enough for anyone looking to transform their outdoor space."
"Hunter just finished the yearly cleaning of our water feature. He did a great job! You can tell he has pride in his work. Modern Design built our water feature in 2020. All the guys were so personable and had such a passion for what they were doing. Tristin is very creative and responds immediately to any questions we might have. He is the best. I can't say enough about this company...They are unbelievable. I would highly recommend them."
"I would HIGHLY recommend that you use this company. They are not just very knowledgeable but they exceeded my customer service expectations. They took their time to make sure we understood how to care for our pond, even made a video for us to refer back to. When they finished, they even pressure washed the area of my driveway that they had tracked mud on. The job was beautiful and they picked up and cleaned up everything before they left."
"The technicians showed up on time and ready to work. They were extremely efficient in setting up holding tanks and transferring the Koi. Their experience and care in handling fish was apparent. I was very pleased with the cleanliness of the pond. While performing the inspection and cleanout, they showed me some underwater lighting and a fountain source that I didn't know existed. In addition, they answered all of my questions regarding pond and fish care. I would recommend Modern Design Aquascaping, Inc. for all of your pond needs."
"Dang!! Words cannot express how excited we are with our new Pondless Waterfall. From the amazing boulders to the most incredible driftwood piece with water trickling down underneath. I could not contain my excitement as I climbed up the waterfall like I know our grandkids will spend countless hours doing in the years to come. Thank you, thank you, thank you Tristan and team for doing an amazing job! PS the frogs have already found their new home."
"This company has worked on my pond for 15 years. I have watched them grow. Their service has never been compromised. They are very knowledgeable and always available for a problem. I highly recommend!"
"Tristan and Cody showed up on time and with smiles on their faces to clean my pond. It was an amazing day! Not only were they professional and knowledgeable, but they made the whole experience enjoyable. They took the time to explain everything they were doing and gave me great tips for maintaining my pond between cleanings. The transformation was incredible—my pond looks brand new. These guys truly care about their work and their customers."
"About 20 years ago when we retired and moved to TN I decided to build a small pond. I had no idea how to start so I just started looking for help. I found Modern Design Aquascaping and what a find that was. They built me a beautiful pond that has been the focal point of our backyard for 20 years. They have always promoted themselves as Artists and that they are. I highly recommend them for any water feature you might be considering."
"I inherited a mud hole of a pond when I moved into a new home a few years ago. After working with another company who couldn't fix it, I called Modern Design Aquascaping. They completely transformed it into something beautiful that I can actually enjoy. Tristan and his team were professional, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to make sure I was happy with the results. The difference is night and day—from a muddy eyesore to a stunning water feature."
"The crew that came to build our waterfall and pond were very friendly and caring. I was amazed at how quickly they worked and how beautiful everything turned out. They explained every step of the process and made sure we were completely satisfied before they left. Our backyard has been transformed into a peaceful retreat that we enjoy every single day. Highly recommend Modern Design Aquascaping!"
"It is so nice to see a company that does what they say, is conscientious, dependable, and knowledgeable!! We couldn't be more pleased with Modern Design Aquascaping. From start to finish, they have exceeded our expectations in every way. Their professionalism and expertise are unmatched."
"Modern Design Aquascaping has maintained our pond and waterfall annually for a very long time. This is an amazing local family business that truly cares about their clients and their work. They are always professional, thorough, and go the extra mile to ensure everything is perfect. We wouldn't trust anyone else with our water feature."
"I have used Modern Design Aquascaping for several years, and I have been very happy with everything they have done for me. Their team is always professional, friendly, and knowledgeable. They take great pride in their work, and it shows in every project they complete. I trust them completely and highly recommend their services."
"We were extremely pleased with the entire process from initial contact to the follow up the day after install. Tristan and his team were professional, creative, and delivered exactly what we envisioned. The communication throughout was excellent, and they went above and beyond to ensure we were happy with every aspect of the project. We couldn't be more thrilled with our new water feature!"
"My lot is so small it would not support a stand-alone pond in the general sense. The plan was to find someone with a design small enough to integrate the pond with a patio yet to be built. That someone was Modern Design. John Adams created a plan reasonable in cost, including paving stones for the patio. It's very beautiful to look at. The day Chris started the waterfall was amazing!! The pond and yard are beautiful — the talk of the community. The pond is really a great way to meet my new neighbors. I recommend that you build a pond at your house."
Original handwritten testimonial from Nancy Goodwin (August 2006)
★★★★★
Dr. Angela L. Batey — Knoxville, TN
June 2006 • Pond Installation
"John, just a quick email to let you know that the pond really looks terrific! We were so impressed with the work of your crew and your foreman, Chris, is an absolute delight. Thanks for a great experience with your company from start to finish!"
Associate Director, University of Tennessee School of Music (June 2006)
★★★★★
Jim Andrews
October 2005 • Waterfall Installation
"John, thank you so much for the beautiful waterfall and the great experience your team provided. From start to finish, the crew was professional, attentive, and made the whole process enjoyable. We are thrilled with the result and grateful for the way your company handled everything."
Original handwritten testimonial from Jim Andrews (October 2005)
★★★★★
Don & Nancy Carpenter — Lenoir City, TN
September 2004 • Paver Patio
"We were extremely pleased with the quality of the work. The crew chief, Chris Davenport, was knowledgeable, thorough and a pleasure to work with. We were amazed as the days progressed; we kept saying this is too good to believe! The paver patio design was more impressive than I ever imagined. Few times in life do things live up to your DREAMS — my patio is more than I ever dreamed. This is the first BILL we have EVER been HAPPY to PAY!!!"
Original testimonial from Don & Nancy Carpenter (September 2004)
★★★★★
James R. Martin — Knoxville, TN
September 2003 • Backyard Transformation
"We are simply delighted with your design, the installation, and the overall effect which your work has added to our home. Your work not only met our expectations, it significantly exceeded them. Your work has literally transformed the backyard of our home from an eyesore into a most private and lovely retreat."
Original testimonial on personal letterhead from James R. Martin (September 2003)
★★★★★
Client Testimonial
May 2003 • Yard Work
"Thanks for a great job on yard. It is a pleasure to have someone who you can call, they come and get the job done, and you don't have to worry whether it's going to be done right or not — good job! I will be calling you in future for additional work."
Original handwritten note from Montessori School project (May 1999)
★★★★★
Joel Farmer — Knoxville, TN
July 1998 • Drainage System
"Modern Design Landscaping recently installed a drainage system for me at my home. They were timely, efficient, effective, and within budget. I greatly appreciate the quality of service that I received and I am happy to recommend Modern Design Landscaping. Thanks for the good work!"
"They were at our house on the scheduled day and completed the job despite some pressing personal problems. All of the plants used appeared to be healthy and the mulch, topsoil, etc. were of good quality. John, Rick, and the other guys were always friendly and cooperative with our wishes. All in all, so far, we are very pleased with the finished product and would call them out for quotes on future projects."
Original handwritten testimonial from Kay & Larry Tecker (July 1998)
★★★★★
Nick A. Randolph — Lenoir City, TN
July 1998 • Dual Pond Installation
"I wanted to let you know how pleased my wife and I are with the two ponds that you installed. You were professional and courteous and we appreciate that the projects were finished in a timely manner as scheduled. We would highly recommend your company. Thank you again for an outstanding job!"
Original testimonial on personal letterhead from Nick A. Randolph (July 1998)
Ready to Create Your Own Experience?
Imagine the soothing sound of flowing water, the elegance of a custom-designed pond, or the simple beauty of a cascading waterfall right in your backyard. At Modern Design Aquascaping, we specialize in transforming outdoor spaces into personal retreats. From initial design to installation and ongoing maintenance, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to get started or learn more about our process.
Let us help bring your vision to life with a water feature crafted specifically for your needs and style.