A Tale of THE TWO Ponds at Penick Village
In 2011, a long time client contacted Barry to let him know that he had recently become a resident of Penick Village in Southern Pines, NC and that he wanted Barry to create a small fish pond on the property where residents could gather to talk or sit in peaceful self-reflection.
A perfect location was chosen.
The pond was to be nestled in a shady and slightly slopping spot among the pines in the common area greenspace - a site purposefully selected so that it would not interfere in the future expansion of the Penick Village residences.
The pond was hand dug, formed and filled. The liner, plumbing and pond elements were installed. Stepping stones, benches and sitting rocks were placed along the water’s edge and an assortment of fish and plants were added. An iron guardrail and a hardpacked bluestone path were also incorporated into the design to provide wheelchair accessibility and safety.
The "Waterfall Garden", as it was referred to, quickly became a treasured gathering place for residents, family, and friends, as well as Penick employees looking for a quiet place of contemplation. The pond became such a favorite that it was even given a "Blessing Ceremony" by a local pastor. It was a spot that provided a true sense of community and fulfilment to the residents who took great pride in the pond’s care and maintenance.
Five years later, the construction plans at Penick Village changed and suddenly they were needing to build a multi-storied residence in the exact location of the “Waterfall Garden”. The residents were devastated by this news and contacted Barry again in desperation.
Without hesitation Barry selected a new site for the pond and set about dismantling the original. He and his team removed the water, fish, plants and rocks, along with the liner, skimmer, bio filter and plumbing, until all that remained was an empty hole in the ground. Then, everything was moved to the new location and carefully re-assembled. The stepping stones, benches and sitting rocks were once again placed at the water’s edge. The fish and plants survived the move and immediately began thriving in their new location. The iron guardrail was reinstalled along a concrete path so that the new pond was even more accessible via wheelchair.
Now, just a few years later the relocated pond is a thriving eco-system that continues to be enjoyed by all who visit the “Waterfall Garden” at Penick Village.
The First Pond at Penick
the Dismantling of the First Penick Pond
the Re-Installation of the Penick Pond in its new location
The 2nd Pond At Penick Soon After completion
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