CHAD MELLON / COURTESY OF ANDERS LASATER ARCHITECTS
Right : A koi pond can allow for Zen moments even without a full garden . Below : A water feature like a fountain and bamboo help to create a peaceful place .
Japanese term for borrowing preexisting scenery ) honors the surrounding landscapes and incorporates them into the background of the garden ; and bridges symbolize one ’ s journey through life and beyond .
“ It ’ s an adventure unto itself in that you are attempting to re-create nature in a confined space , and so it ’ s your goal to try and utilize these different elements ,” Peterson says .
On the other hand , some Zen gardens take a minimalist approach , featuring a rectangular area filled with sand or gravel and an occasional rock , as well as a rake or comb for drawing patterns in the aggregate as a way to relax .
“[ Zen gardens ] can be very extravagant and all-encompassing … or they can be just as simple as that sand patch with a rock or two and the ability to walk in there and actually hands-on comb that sand to find a sense of serenity and meditation ,” Peterson explains .
COURTESY OF JOHN STANALAND
LIVING ART PIECES When it comes to adding a water element , some homeowners may opt for a water garden or koi pond . Laguna Koi Ponds , owned by Zuccolotto and Ben Plonski , is a local company ( based in Laguna Canyon ) that specializes in installing , maintaining and supplying resources for both .
“ Koi fish are a part of Zen gardens a lot of the time because they bring peace and harmony and beauty to an area ,” Zuccolotto says .
According to Zuccolotto , a true koi pond doesn ’ t have many plants because the beauty lies in the koi fish , which he refers to as
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