Transforming a Small Backyard Corner into a Stunning Waterfall Escape

Pondless Waterfall Project in Leawood, KS

Project Overview

LOCATION: LEAWOOD, KS

PROJECT LENGTH: 5 DAYS

BUDGET: $50,000

Unique Client Challenges

○ TIGHT SPACE BETWEEN PATIO & FIREPIT

○ LARGE BOULDERS IN CONFINED AREA

○ VISIBILITY FROM INDOORS & OUTDOORS

Custom Solutions Provided

✅ DUAL-STREAM DESIGN CREATED HEIGHT WITHOUT OVERCROWDING

✅ HAND-SELECTED ROCKS TO BLEND SEAMLESSLY

✅ ANGLED SPILLWAYS ENSURED PRIME INDOOR & OUTDOOR VIEWS

The homeowners had a vision for a dynamic, natural-looking waterfall that would transform a small corner of their backyard into a captivating focal point. They wanted a multi-tiered, pondless waterfall that could be enjoyed from multiple vantage points—including their soon-to-be-completed patio and firepit area, as well as from inside their downstairs bar. The challenge? Working with limited space while still delivering the dramatic height and natural flow they envisioned.

Challenges of Building a Pondless Waterfall in a Small Space

  • Tight working space: Nestled between a paver patio, a firepit seating area, and a raised patio, every inch had to be used effectively.
  • Large, oversized boulders: The homeowners wanted a waterfall that felt like it had always been there, which meant sourcing and placing massive natural stone elements in a confined area.
  • Multiple viewing angles: The waterfalls needed to be oriented so they were visible and engaging from multiple outdoor gathering spaces, while also making a bold statement from inside the home.
  • Dramatic height: The homeowners wanted a grand, naturalistic waterfall rather than a small feature, meaning strategic elevation planning was crucial.

How We Designed and Built This Stunning Water Feature

Watch the video to sew how over the course of five days, the Good Earth Water Gardens team brought Cascade Corner project to life:


✔ Day 1 - Excavation & Foundation

  • Excavated and compacted the berm for elevation
  • Installed AquaBlox™ for water flow and stability
  • Blended soil placement for a seamless landscape fit

Day 2 - Setting the Framework

  • Positioned base boulders to shape the dual waterfalls
  • Angled spillways for prime indoor and outdoor views
  • Directed water flow toward the firepit for ambiance

Day 3 - Water Dynamics & Structural Refinement

  • Refined cooling area for smooth water merging
  • Added flow cell tiles to stabilize massive boulders
  • Calibrated water flow for tranquility and whitewater

Day 4 - Upper Waterfall & Finishing Touches

  • Constructed final elevation for split and dancing water
  • Integrated driftwood and moss for a natural look
  • Tweaked spillways for crossfire water movement

Day 5 - Final Installations & Cleanup

  • Added auto-dosing system for easy maintenance
  • Installed downspout filter for eco-friendly rain capture
  • Finalized landscaping for seamless integration

See the Transformation: A Backyard Corner Waterfall Cascade

The transformation was nothing short of spectacular. What was once an underutilized backyard corner is now the heart of the outdoor space—a high-impact, multi-tiered waterfall that enhances both the patio and firepit seating area while also delivering a mesmerizing view from inside the home. The homeowners were thrilled with the outcome, especially with how the waterfall felt like a natural extension of their landscape rather than an added feature.

What the Homeowners Had to Say

"This is an outstanding and extremely well-run business. They built me a massive pondless waterfall a couple of years ago and then recently revamped a front bubbler rock. I gave them my vision for an area, and they made it happen better than I imagined. Their customer service and maintenance program have been great and are always extremely attentive. The design they created really takes care of itself. I highly recommend them!!!"


What Makes This Pondless Waterfall Unique

Designed for small spaces while maintaining a dramatic impact
Placed massive boulders to achieve a natural, aged aesthetic
Optimized waterfall angles for stunning indoor and outdoor views
Engineered dynamic water flow for movement, sound, and realism
Installed automated filtration for a self-sustaining, low-maintenance feature

The owners and employees at Good Earth Water Gardens of Kansas CIty pose for a team photo.

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