• Remove blocking hedges such as rows of arborvitae. • Avoid center yard designs. Small ornamental trees—crape myrtle, Japanese maple, dogwood—can block long views of architectural highlights, such as main entrances. • The prow of a triangular lot can be an exclamation point showcasing a specimen tree or a notable architectural feature. 24 Step 3: Connect long views Fig. 39 Clues to Mass Ave’s historic beauty can be seen in this photo taken in 1913 of the 2000 block of Mass Ave (front cover). Why is this scene so inviting? The traveler is sheltered by mature tree canopy and dappled shade, yet in a noble public space. The connecting ribbon of open lawn helps the traveler see the facades framed by tall trees. City leaders envisioned these sheltered yet impressive views when they “parked” Washington’s avenues based on their study of Paris (Fig. 3). See History: respect the lines of the Street on page 12. A grand avenue should offer very long views, framed by arches of mature trees Originally ribbons of lawn with few interruptions flanked the tree rows, helping to connect views of the Beaux Arts mansions on the part of Mass Ave now known as Embassy Row Other streets have their own rhythms and lines, such as Washington’s blocks of brick row houses with same-height stoops, bay projections and windows Well-planned landscape can strengthen a street’s most pleasing lines Poor landscaping destroys a street’s unity46
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