Here is the pond design that many pond owners end up with, mainly because it is neither one nor the other, hence...Semi-Formal.

This design is great for linking different areas of your surrounding gardens and structures without appearing like you didn't have a clue what you were doing.

On such a modest scaled area, where you would desire most of the pond water features, the Semi-formal pond is the most desired. This way you can have fish, a fountain, and different plants and even work the old barn into the mix. This option is great for the average family, as it can be a focal point for the yard while not seeming so formal that your friends think they must bring wine as passage to your aquatic wonderland.

The configuration of your Semi-formal pond is only restricted by your imagination. As an example, a path or patio, and the other side can border one side of your pond by a lawn or ground cover. It's all up to you. The edge of your pond does not have to be uniform like a formal pond or perfectly natural in appearance as in an informal pond. Even though the premise is to have a level pond area that does not mean that it has to match. Sometimes, different levels of the area add to the overall beauty, especially when properly planted. You even have the option of raising it above the surrounding area with raised beds or even borders.

Your Semi-formal pond relies on all of the many surrounding plants to give it charm. This gives your water garden a personal air to it and shows your tastes and personality. Extending a water feature into a bog area is a nice addition to the Semi-formal look and a way to give it some character is the sometimes-busy look of a backyard setting.

Smart planning is the key when locating your new pond. Be sure to install outdoor lighting that accents main areas of the yard and the surrounding pond area. If you use a fountain or waterfall, be sure they also are tastefully lighted.

So if you are one of those people that just can't decide on a formal or informal setting, then opt for the semi-formal and you can't go wrong.