From Idea to Idyll: Renaissance of a Pond

"Blush" Freshens the Face of Eichen
GreenArt Turns Former Fire Protection Pond into a Biotope for Local Recreation

Once a proud village pond in the center of Eichen, the "Röte" – which roughly translates into "blush" – had over the years shrunk to a sorry puddle. The mud at the bottom of the pond had expanded to a level that put its traditional inhabitants, the carps, at a severe risk of getting stranded. In spring 2007, therefore, it was high time to "fish or cut bait."

The concept proposed by GreenArt was met with such enthusiasm that it was implemented in an amazingly short period of time – thanks to dedicated help from the neighbors.

The angular, fenced-in pit fed with water dribbling from a plastic pipe proved a welcome challenge for the designer – as did the aging, decidedly uninviting bench next to the pond. This is where the GreenArt team created a terrace paved with rustic natural stone virtually rising above the water. From this cozy place to rest, countless new details can be admired: The opposite bank of the pond is now skirted with rocks, while the inflowing water is cascading over genuine old sandstone gutters.



The selection of plants in and out of the water adds a rich touch of color to the picture. At the same time, it underscores the nature-like character of the site, which also contributes to the local fauna: Frogs and hedgehogs are among the various species that find shelter in the rubble and underbrush of the newly shaped pond banks.



The people of Eichen feel equally at home in this corner, turning it into a delightful beer garden during the warmer summer nights. No wonder the attractive new meeting place has already been awarded a special prize by the selection committee of the "Our village has a future" competition.