About The Author

Todd Thomasson

Todd Thomasson, founder of Rock Water Farm Landscapes & Hardscapes, grew up on his family’s working beef cattle farm in Danville, where he learned the value of hard work from his parents. In 2005, he combined that work ethic with his Landscape & Turf Management degree from Virginia Tech to establish the company, serving as the lead stone mason and landscape designer, creating exceptional outdoor spaces with craftsmanship and attention to detail.

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An Outdoor Fireplace vs. Fire Pit: Which is Best for My Northern Virginia Backyard?

Posted On: April 07,2020 By: Todd Thomasson

All fire features have some of the same allure including their ability to throw light and heat onto your outdoor living space as well as their magnetic draw. Everyone seems to love gathering around a fire for both its looks and its warmth.

While both an outdoor fireplace or fire pit would give you these same benefits, you might be trying to figure out which is the better option for your backyard. There are definitely some key points to take into consideration as you try to determine which is best for your home in Ashburn, Aldie, Leesburg, VA or surrounding areas.

Stone walkway design and landscaping in front of house

Stone Walkway Ideas, Costs and Design Tips for Your Northern Virginia Home

Posted On: March 12,2020 By: Todd Thomasson

Walkways are an important part of your landscape design. Not only do they serve a highly functional purpose of getting you from “Point A” to “Point B” around the property, but they also contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of your landscape.

If it’s in the front yard, the walkway is one of the first things that people will see as they drive by or pull up to your home. That makes them an incredibly important factor in terms of curb appeal. In the backyard, a walkway helps contribute to the overall look and function of your outdoor living space.

4 Tips for Finding a Great Landscape Design Firm in Great Falls, VA

Posted On: February 18,2020 By: Todd Thomasson

Whether it’s a patio, an outdoor kitchen, a pool, or all of the above, if you have an outdoor living project in mind then it’s something you’ve likely spent some time thinking about and are excited to get underway.

You can imagine yourself outside relaxing or making memories with friends and family—and you know that having a great outdoor space can help make it all possible.

Of course, great landscape design in Great Falls doesn’t just happen.

Loudoun County Pool Builders Create a Fun & Relaxing Backyard in Round Hill, VA

Posted On: February 12,2020 By: Todd Thomasson

For some homeowners, a “blank slate” backyard can feel entirely overwhelming. Where do you even begin? You might have some ideas of what you want, but it’s hard to see a complete vision of how it will all come together when your yard is totally bare.

But that’s exactly what a pool designer and builder loves!

10 Interview Tips to Land a Great Lawn Care or Landscaping Job in Northern VA

Posted On: January 13,2020 By: Todd Thomasson

If you’re someone who is looking for a lawn care or landscaping job, you might be wondering what it takes to get hired by a great company. What can you do that will help you make a really great first impression and improve your chances?

8 Hardscape Design Ideas for Your Backyard in Northern Virginia

Posted On: January 03,2020 By: Rock Water Farm

Hardscaped areas are a great way to add value and purpose to your backyard. Whereas softscaping involves using plant material such as turfgrasses, shrubs, and trees, hardscaping involves using stone, wood, and other materials to create solid surfaces and structures. By hardscaping areas of your property you increase functionality and create spaces where you can set up furniture, have an outdoor kitchen, or can even have a fire feature such as an outdoor fireplace.

The Best Pool Patio Material: Comparing Natural Stone, Pavers and Concrete

Posted On: January 01,2020 By: Todd Thomasson

The patio surrounding your pool is a key element of the entire pool design, though it’s often given a lot less thought than it should. It’s where you’ll lounge while watching your kids play or while you’re taking a break from your own swim.

It may even be a place where you set up a table and chairs to enjoy poolside summer meals and snacks. The pool patio may just be one part of the project but it winds up being key to whether your pool is fully enjoyed or not.

Beautiful landscape design in Willowsford, VA

Willowsford Case Study: Backyard Patio, Pergola, Fire Pit, & Outdoor Kitchen in Loudoun County, VA

Posted On: December 16,2019 By: Todd Thomasson

Although it had a large and impressive yard, this Loudoun County, VA property in Willowsford, lacked functionality. Besides a few steps leading to the backyard, there was nothing there but lawn.

Starting from a blank slate always allows for the possibility of going in many different directions but the starting point is always the homeowners’ wants and needs.

3D pool design at night by Rock Water Farm

3D Pool Design: Why Your Pool Designer in Northern Virginia Should Offer It

Posted On: December 11,2019 By: Todd Thomasson

If you’re planning to have a pool designed and installed on your property, then you obviously want to be confident that you’re going to be thrilled with the results. You know that a pool is a large investment but it’s also bound to yield many years of enjoyment when it’s designed and built well.

Willowsford, VA landscaping project featuring a patio, fire pit, plantings and more.

Willowsford, VA Landscaping Case Study: Family-Friendly Patio

Posted On: November 21,2019 By: Todd Thomasson

There’s nothing quite like spending time outside—assuming you have the right space for it. After all, homeowners don’t just want a yard, they want a yard they can actually use. Adding hardscaped areas is one of the best ways to get more usable space out of a backyard.

On any project, the main objective is to encourage people to spend more time outside with highly functional spaces that meet all of their needs. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to wonder how they can incorporate a backyard that fulfills everyone’s interests.