Get your summer on
Article posted: 5/20/2012 6:00 AM

Water, fire can transform a backyard

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Aquascape builds water features like this.

Courtesy Aquascape

Aquascape offers this mushroom fountain.

Courtesy Aquascape

Stone like this basalt is always popular for fountains at Aquascape.

Courtesy Aquascape

Belgard makes the pavers for this patio and water feature.

Courtesy Belgard

A natural or ecosystem pond is a choice from Aquascape.

Courtesy Aquascape

Aquascape features pondless waterfalls.

Courtesy Aquascape

Here is a Belgard fireplace in the Chicago suburbs.

Courtesy Belgard

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This fireplace from Belgard is in the upper Midwest.

Courtesy Belgard

Firepits can help the Midwest's tropical season seem longer.

Courtesy Belgard

This firepit warms some chilly nights in the upper Midwest.

Courtesy Belgard

Firepits are popular choices for backyards.

Courtesy Belgard

Fountains bring running water to backyards.

Courtesy Belgard

Apple Landscape installed this fireplace and patio with materials purchased through Lurvey of Des Plaines.

Courtesy Lurvey

About this Article

Is it enough to have a patio with some lawn chairs for outdoor entertaining? They are a start, but for a transcendental outdoor experience, try adding fire and water into the mix. Ponds, waterfalls, fountains, firepits and even fireplaces are transforming more and more backyards into a relaxing getaway.