What Qualities Make A Great Water Feature Contractor?

 

We evaluated each company based on: “We’ll explain why each of these factors matters below”

 

• Years in Business–  Experience often translates to reliability.

• Reviews- Google / facebook reviews related to water feature installation and maintenance. 

• Awards-  Have they been recognized for artistic ability or creativity?

• Certifications- Have they been formally trained and educated in their craft?

• • Do They Offer Maintenance & Repairs? Do they offer on-going service after the build?
  • Do They Offer Education & Inspiration? Are they educating the public about what they do on YouTube & On Their Website?

• Are They Specialized? Do they do lots of things or just one thing?

 

Here’s a breakdown of why each criteria matters!

 So you wanna know how we came up with our results? We asked ourselves, “What are the best indicators that a company could build a solid water feature?”  Below you will find a bit more information about how we assessed and analyzed each company and why it’s important to you if you’re considering hiring a water feature professional.

 

• Years in Business–  While this is not a guarantee for success, it should be a very good indicator. Companies to build water features that stand the test of time are what you’re looking for! 
• Reviews-  A great water feature team will have amazing reviews, it’s as simple as that. Both construction and maintenance reviews were considered. We only considered water feature related reviews when we pulled them from Google & FaceBook to give a clear picture of how clients felt about their water feature experiences. 
• Awards- Unique pond, fountain, and waterfall styles and customizations show ability. We only recognize water feature-related awards that are based on artistic and creative skill. These help you manage expectations about the level of artistry you can expect from each builder.
• Certifications-  Many manufacturers offer training for the installation of their products. While it is not a guarantee of an artistically superior project, a company that has been trained on the proper methodologies of construction and maintenance, gives potential clients confidence that a company has done their due diligence to be educated in their craft.
• Do They Offer Maintenance & Repairs? Availability of seasonal or annual pond care.  Doing maintenance and fixing things that were done wrong or have gone wrong gives a team more experience to do things right the first time.
• Education & Inspiration- Typically a YouTube channel is a way for a company to share information with potential clients. Educational content, how to content, as well as project showcases provide clients a look “under the hood”,  to learn about a company’s people and processes.
• Specialization-  Do they have a team of “dedicated” water feature specialists? While it’s not always the case, companies who offer multiple services tend to build on a significantly different level than companies who build water features all the time. It’s not uncommon to have employees with little to no experience on water feature projects when a company only does water features “sometimes”.

Top Knoxville Pond Companies In 2025

• Willow Ridge Garden Center & Landscaping
• Modern Design Aquascaping Inc.
• Earthadelic Inc.
• Pond Country
• Perennial Ponds

Willow Ridge Garden Center & Landscaping

Founded in 1981 in Oak Ridge, TN, is a family-owned business that combines a robust garden center with professional landscaping services, including the design and installation of water features as part of a broader portfolio.

📞 Phone: (865) 481–3825

📍 Address: 97 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge, TN 37830

🏗️ Years in Business: Founded in 1981

🌐 Website: willowridgegardencenter.com

📘 Facebook Page: Facebook.com/willowridgegardencenter

📺 YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@willowridgegardencenterlan898 

💧 Water Feature Specialist?: No – Water features are one of several services they offer

📜 Certifications & Awards:

• Master Certified Aquascape Contractor – fully certified installer of Aquascape water features.

 

⭐ Google Review Summary (Water Feature–Specific Only)

Average Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.93 (Based on 15 reviews)

Customers who hired Willow Ridge to build or service a pond, waterfall, or fountain reported overwhelmingly positive experiences. They described the company as responsive, skilled, and capable of delivering water features that were both beautiful and functional. Many noted the natural aesthetic of the final product and praised the professionalism of the crews. Customers appreciated clear communication and a sense that their ideas were truly heard and brought to life. While one or two reviews briefly mentioned issues or wait times, they were rare and never dominant. The overall sentiment was one of satisfaction and admiration for the craftsmanship and customer care Willow Ridge delivered in water feature projects.

🏅 Best Review to Feature

Reviewer: thomaschavers

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Review:

“My wife and I moved into a house, back in 2020, in which one of the previous residents had put in a DIY fish pond. They didn’t leave us any instructions on it. I had to figure things out on my own. This year (2025), I had it professionally serviced by Willow Ridge Garden Center. They did an AMAZING job. I can’t believe it’s the same pond. It was worth every penny. All of their pond maintenance team are trained and certified by Aquascape. Zach and Evan are the 2 gentlemen that serviced our fish pond. They are super great guys and they were able to answer all of my questions and gave me wonderful tips and advice on how to maintain a healthy pond. I HIGHLY recommend Willow Ridge Garden Center for all of your fish pond needs and services.”

📍https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/101206851818673221055/reviews?hl=en 

Modern Design Aquascaping Inc.

Modern Design Aquascaping is a nationally awarded, family-run company based in East Tennessee that specializes exclusively in the design, construction, and maintenance of ecosystem ponds, fountains, and waterfalls.

📞 Phone: (865) 995‑1234

📍 Address: 761 Disco Loop Road, Friendsville, TN 37737

🏗️ Years in Business: Founded in 1994, specializing in water features since 2000

🌐 Website: www.mdaquascaping.com

📺 YouTube Channel: @MDAquascaping

📘 Facebook Page: Modern Design Aquascaping

💧 Water Feature Specialist?: Yes

📜 Certifications & Awards:

• Master Certified Aquascape Contractor

• Aquascape Artist of the Year (2013)

• Rainwater Harvesting Certification

• Water Feature Artisans of the Year

• Best Waterfall (Pond Trade Magazine)

⭐ Google Review Summary (Water Feature–Specific Only)

Average Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 (Based on 35 reviews)

Modern Design Aquascaping clients overwhelmingly describe their experience as transformational, marked by professionalism, artistry, and emotional impact. Many note how their ponds or waterfalls have become the centerpiece of their outdoor life—bringing peace, joy, and a sense of awe. Reviewers praise the team’s attention to detail, clear communication, and consistent follow-through from start to finish. Even long-time maintenance clients express loyalty, citing consistent service and trust built over many years. Whether it’s a new build or a seasonal cleanout, customers feel deeply cared for and proud to showcase the living artwork in their yards.

🏅 Best Review to Feature

Reviewer: Benjie Cox

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Review:

“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.”

https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/104493794283079099204/reviews 

Earthadelic Inc.

Originally launched as Knox Lawns in 2001 and rebranded after expanding into landscaping and hardscaping, is a Knoxville-based design-build firm—established under the leadership of Dale Madden—offering full-service outdoor construction from custom water features to home additions and outdoor living spaces.

📞 Phone: (865) 806–1125

📍 Address: 5937 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37909

🏗️ Years in Business: Founded in 2001

🌐 Website: https://www.earthadelic.com/water-features.html 

📺 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnMj21c5HxVG-tuk3XsSs5A 

📘 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/earthadelic1/ 

 

💧 Water Feature Specialist?: No – Water features are one of several services they offer.

📜 Certifications & Awards:

• Not publicly listed

⸻

⭐ Google Review Summary (Water Feature–Specific Only)

Average Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 (Based on 12 reviews)

Clients who hired Earthadelic for ponds, waterfalls, and fountains consistently praised the company for its artistic craftsmanship, reliable execution, and the emotional transformation their outdoor spaces underwent. Many described their new water features as natural-looking, peaceful, and beautiful—often using words like “oasis,” “stunning,” and “amazing.” There was a recurring theme of clients feeling that their expectations were not only met, but exceeded. Earthadelic’s team was credited for listening carefully, collaborating well, and creating custom solutions that enhanced their homes and lifestyles. Not a single complaint or negative experience was mentioned across these reviews—just a steady stream of enthusiasm and gratitude.

⸻

🏅 Best Review to Feature

Reviewer: Don Sloan

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Review:

I am now one year post the start of the total makeover of my backyard that included a three tier water feature, a boulder retaining wall, and sidewalk including a sitting area on the lake.  I was about 75% committed to another company before talking with Earthadelic about a competitive quote.  I ended up going with Earthadelic even though they were more expensive because of the ideas, competency, and feel of commitment to doing a quality job.  That ended up being a good choice.  They started when they said they would, worked through some tough winter weather, and finished on time.  When surprises happened they dealt with them and didn’t make excuses.   The on site manager Pedro was amazing in always thinking ahead, adapting to situations, had material needed ordered and on site as needed. His support team worked hard and was a pleasure to be around.  It was about a 3 month project that required creativity and skill – Pedro obviously had an abundance of both.  The project coordinator, Shane, could not have been better at communicating, talking through adjustments, and was always making sure they were living up to expectations.  It was evident they place a high value in their reputation in they way use quality material, do not cut corners and in my case, expand my project in a few areas that exceed my original design without nitpicking on pricing.  Shawn and Pedro take pride in their work and the end results showed as I loved the end result.  Had follow up communication from Shawn almost a year later just making sure things continue to go well.  When you hear companies say “we may be a little more expensive, but we will be worth it”, you have no idea if that is just a line or not, but from my experience with Earthadelic it was true and in the end result more than lived up to them hopes I had. Looking forward to the spring plants coming out!

https://maps.app.goo.gl/U4YFL3xYp1XNsMK2A 

Pond Country

Founded in 1999 and based in Knoxville since 2017, is a leading Southeast U.S. water feature specialist—Master Certified by Aquascape—with over 1,000 ecosystem ponds, waterfalls, fountains, and natural swimming pools installed across the Carolinas, Tennessee, Virginia, and beyond.

📞 Phone: (865) 414–3664

📍 Address: 8718 S Northshore Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922

🏗️ Years in Business: Founded in 1999 (family of companies serving region for 25 years)

🌐 Website: https://www.pondcountry.com/knoxville

📺 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@pondcountry

📘 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PondCountryKnoxville/

💧 Water Feature Specialist?: Yes – They specialize in water features.

📜 Certifications & Awards:

•  Master Certified Aquascape Contractor
•  Aquascape’s Top Frog Award (2015–2023) – Largest purchaser of Aquascape product
•  Listed in Aquascape’s Top 100 Product Purchasing Companies for the last 15 years

⸻

⭐ Google Review Summary

Average Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.7 (Based on 61 reviews across all locations)

Pond Country receives strong praise across its multiple locations for both its expertise and personal touch. Customers frequently highlight the knowledgeable staff, clear communication, and emotional joy their finished water features bring to everyday life. Reviewers mention feeling supported from the first conversation to the final walkthrough. Some noted minor issues with scheduling or follow-ups, but these were exceptions—not the rule. With enthusiastic mentions of specific team members and recurring themes of professionalism and beauty, Pond Country leaves a consistently positive impression across its regional footprint.

🟨 Note: Pond Country is a franchise with multiple independent teams by location. This summary includes reviews from all locations combined. For location-specific insight, a deeper review analysis is recommended.

⸻

🏅 Best Review to Feature

Reviewer: Jennifer Stallings

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Review:

“If you are thinking about a pond, just do it… specifically work with Pond Country! I don’t leave reviews but for this experience I need to share. Pond Country has been nothing but exceptional. Kelly, Shane, Angela and Lee at the store and through the design and purchase experience has and continues to feel like we are the most important client they have! They have shared knowledge with us to prepare for our pond. Justin, Anderson and Jakeb were phenomenal with the installation. I can’t take my eyes off my pond and stream, the sound of the water is wonderful. The experience the build team brought to our home has been something I will always treasure. The pond is a dream come true and I appreciate Pond Country for helping to make it happen for us! Can’t wait to do more now! Thank you all sincerely!”

📍https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/105596038704638248780/reviews?hl=en 

Perennial Ponds

A Rockford, TN‑based company with over a decade of landscaping experience (approximately 13 years), specializes in aquascaping—custom koi ponds, waterfalls, streambeds—with full-service installation, maintenance, hardscaping, and landscaping throughout Blount and surrounding counties.

📞 Phone: (865) 606‑3499

📍 Address: 3708 Williams Mill Rd, Rockford, TN 37853

(serving Maryville, Knoxville & East Tennessee)

📆 Years in Business: Operating for approximately 13 years

🌐 Website: No standalone website found

📺 YouTube Channel: None

📘 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/perennialponds

💧 Water Feature Specialist? Yes – Focused on aquascaping (custom water features) alongside landscaping/hardscaping services

🏅 Certifications & Awards:

• No Aquascape or formal certifications advertised
• No listed industry awards or recognitions

⭐ Average Google Rating (Water Feature–Specific Only):

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 (Based on 3 relevant reviews)

📝 Review Summary:

Perennial Ponds receives consistently excellent feedback from the few clients who’ve left detailed reviews about their pond, waterfall, or fountain projects. Customers describe the experience as professional, courteous, and thorough—from initial contact to the final result. The crew is repeatedly praised for showing up on time, doing what they say they’ll do, and delivering exactly what was promised. Although the sample size is small, the quality of the feedback is unanimous: these customers felt supported, respected, and extremely happy with the end product. These guys seem to have consistently quality reviews on Google, even though most of the reviews don’t mention water features. It is fair to say, the people reviewing them approved of the way they do business.

🏅 Best Review to Feature:

Reviewer: Elaine Russell

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Review:

“David has been a great help to me since I have moved here on Cottage Glen. He has always been very professional and diligent in his work. The work crew has always been courteous, thoughtful, and thorough. I would highly recommend Perennial Ponds to anyone needing their service.”

https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/106204212426981006175/reviews?hl=en 

Choosing the Perfect East Tennessee Water Feature Builder for You

Choosing the right water feature contractor for your project is a huge decision. You want someone who runs a solid business and treats their clients right — someone who listens and incorporates what matters most to you. But one of the most overlooked aspects of this entire process is the artistic value your builder brings to the table.

Once you’ve verified that the company you’re considering has the technical skill and experience to build something that will stand the test of time, you have to face the real decision: Who is the right artist for me? And, what kind of budget am I working with to get this done right?

Whether you decide to work with Modern Design Aquascaping or one of the other talented pond builders in the Knoxville area, my hope is that you’re excited about the entire experience. Your water feature will likely become the heart of your outdoor space — the place where you relax, recharge, entertain, and connect. So take your time. Do your homework.

Look through each company’s website and social media platforms. Study their photos. Ask yourself: Does their work speak to me? Does it match the style and feel I’m dreaming of? If something catches your eye, make sure they actually built it — not just reposted a cool picture. Message a few of their past clients from online reviews and ask how their experience really went. Are they still happy with their water feature today?

Because here’s the hard truth: I’ve met far too many people who spent good money on a water feature and ended up heartbroken. Not because they were trying to cut corners, but because they didn’t have the information they needed to make the right decision for them. When you don’t know what questions to ask — when you haven’t seen enough to understand what quality really looks like — price becomes the only thing you can measure. And that’s when people get hurt. They didn’t choose wrong on purpose… they just didn’t have the tools to choose right.

So my friends, I appreciate you taking the time to go through this lengthy article. I hope you found a lot of value in here. I did my absolute best to be completely transparent and show the best side of all of these companies.

💧 Want to Talk to a Water Feature Pro?

If you’re still feeling unsure about who to hire or what direction to go, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Choosing a water feature builder can be overwhelming, especially when there’s a lot riding on it emotionally, artistically, and financially. If you want someone to talk through your ideas with, my team and I are here to help.

Visit www.MDAquascaping.com, call us directly at (865) 995-1234, or check out our YouTube channel with over 50,000 subscribers at YouTube.com/ModernDesignAquascapingInc.

We’ve dedicated our lives to inspiring and educating the world about ponds, waterfalls, and fountains—and we’d be honored to help you make the right decision for your space.

Happy Pondering 🙂

John G.

About the Author

John G. Adams is the founder of Modern Design Aquascaping Inc. and widely regarded as one of the most respected and artistic minds in the water feature industry. With over three decades of experience building ponds, fountains, and waterfalls across the United States and around the world — including Canada, the U.K., South America, and multiple trips to Africa with the Aquascape Foundation — John has earned a reputation for precision, passion, and an eye for the little things that take time… but make all the difference.

Although his sons now lead most of the construction at Modern Design, John has shifted his focus toward educating and inspiring others. He dedicates his time to creating powerful social media content, mentoring up-and-coming artists, working with nonprofit projects, and soaking in life with his eight grandchildren. His YouTube channel, Modern Design Aquascaping, has over 50,000 subscribers, serving as a free, ever-growing resource for anyone who wants to learn about ponds, fountains, and waterfalls.

Whether you’ve stumbled on one of his videos, met him on a job site, or are just discovering his work now — his mission remains the same: to change lives through water and help people connect more deeply with the spaces around them.