ABOUT US
Meet Daniel Kelley – “The Trickle Man”
My name is Daniel Kelley, the Chief Design Artist behind LWI Designs, LLC—though three of my favorite clients have come to know me simply as “The Trickle Man.” The nickname stuck because it captures exactly what drives me: helping people find peace, joy, and connection through the soothing sound of water. My “why” has always been to positively impact my customers’ lives—bringing them lasting tranquility and giving their families another chance to spend quality time together, surrounded by beauty.
To me, every pond, stream, or fountain I create isn’t just a water feature—it’s an opportunity to help someone live what I call the Legacy Waterscape Lifestyle.
Water is my inspiration, and it’s been the heartbeat of everything I do for almost four decades in construction, design, and my craftsmanship.
Building with Heart, Creativity, and Purpose
I’ve never believed in “cookie cutter.” Every project I take on starts with imagination and ends with something truly one-of-a-kind. I love thinking outside the box—combining time-tested methods with innovative design to craft something epic, natural, and full of life feature. The end goal is to build in a way that makes one think everything else was built around your amazing feature.
My journey took a major leap forward when I joined Team Aquascape for two years, working alongside some of the most talented builders in the world—people like Ed Beaulieu and several Aquascape Artists of the Year. Those experiences didn’t just refine my skills; they deepened my purpose.
I’ve now been part of over 300 builds for amazing people—families, celebrities, influencers, and heroes—and every single one reminded me why I do this. I don’t just build with tools; I build with heart, and I pour everything I have into creating spaces that make life better through water. I also enjoy collaborating with my best friends that also share my passion for what we’re blessed to do everyday.
Living the Legacy Waterscape Lifestyle
Since opening Legacy Waterscape Innovations Designs, LLC in 2020, I’ve been proud to serve the Central Illinois and Chicagoland communities—and travel across the country (and even beyond) to collaborate with other passionate water artists. As an Atlantic-Oase Pro Contractor and Product Education & Training Coordinator; I’m honored to help teach and inspire the next generation of pond builders while continuing to learn and grow myself
At home, I live what I create—I’ve built six water features in my own backyard, from fountainscapes to a recreational swim pond, where my wife Kelly and I unwind and reconnect. We truly believe everyone deserves “trickles” to come home to. When you choose LWI Designs, you’re not just getting a pond builder—you’re getting someone who’s personally invested in your dream from start to finish, with a commitment to quality, integrity, and a lasting positive impact that flows far beyond the water’s edge. Contact me today to design your dream water feature and start living the Legacy Waterscape Lifestyle today!
