Help on Dry Creek Bed

We have just begun a renovation project which includes shoring up our current foundation and adding a sun room and porch along the back of our house. Our neighbors to the left have a low lot. In an effort to alleviate the water problem, we are adding rain barrels to our existing downspouts on that side of the house. The water from the new construction will be diverted into a french drain system to the other side of our lot where there is not a drainage issue. At the end of the french drain I would like to put in a dry creek bed to help carry the water to the front of the property and out into the ditch.

Does anyone have pictures of a dry creek bed that they have made or had constructed for their property? Also any suggestions as to whether it is better to leave the rocks/stones loose or should they be cemented? I have heard arguments for both ways.

Because of the expense of the renovations, we are having the french drain installed, but will do the dry creek bed ourselves (meaning ME) so I would appreciate any advice that you have. Right now I am trying to look beyond the trampled grass and plants and trying to envision how this will all look when it is finished. Thanks for your input!