This video is closed-captioned in English and Spanish. Este video tiene subtítulos en inglés y español.
Soon after the Blisses purchased Dumbarton Oaks, they demolished the barn, which was located north of the Orangery, and began the conversion of the stable yard into a Green Garden, which would in a sense be a part of the rooms looking out on it . . . and attractive throughout the winter.
The Blisses visualized the garden as an outdoor entertaining area beyond the Orangery.
This terrace, at the highest elevation of the property, allows views over the garden terraces below to the hillsides to the north and the city to the east. Paths lead from the Green Garden to the Beech Terrace, the Pebble Garden, the North Vista, the Star Garden, and the Swimming Pool and Loggia.
Set within the balustrade is a plaque dedicated to the friendship between the Blisses and Beatrix Farrand. The inscription reads: “Dumbarton Oaks. Somnia sub patulis videant nascentia ramis sidera fausa ferant omnia et usque bona. Testimonio amicitiae Beatricis Farrand nec illorum immemores qui postero aevo vitas veritati erunendae impenderint. Hanc tabellam posuerunt Robertus Woods Bliss uxorque Mildred.”
In Garden Ornament at Dumbarton Oaks, the Latin is translated as “May they see dreams springing from the spreading bough; may fortunate stars always bring them good omens. Witness to the friend of Beatrix Farrand, not unmindful of those who in a later age shall have spent their lives bringing forth the truth. This tablet has been placed by Robert Woods Bliss and his wife Mildred.”
More Exhibit Items
This small greenhouse is one of the oldest structures still standing on the grounds of Dumbarton Oaks.
This grassy terrace, shaded by a tall oak tree, provides a panoramic view of the entire estate.
The wide, shady branches of an enormous beech tree stretch over this quiet enclosed space.
The Urn Terrace serves as an ivied transition between the Beech Terrace, Box Walk, and Rose Garden.
A riotous variety of roses fills this sunny space between the Urn and Fountain Terraces.
A traditional flower garden in a blend of English Cottage and Arts and Crafts style.
The story of a terrier given to a Neapolitan girl by a French admiral inspired this column.
A shallow pool sits at the bottom of a small brick amphitheater, bordered by a stand of bamboo.
This narrow brick walk wends through a dreamlike woodland spotted with daffodils and hyacinths.
Hidden near the edge of the gardens, Lilac Circle offers a secluded spot for rest and contemplation.
When the trees blossom in springtime, this hillside becomes one of the gardens’ most magical spaces.
Blooming forsythia turns this corner of the gardens bright yellow at the beginning of spring.
Elaborate stonework and low flowerbeds play off trellises of wisteria in this stately courtyard.
This small room features custom stonework, wrought-iron furniture, and a fountain ornamented with various constellations.
The swimming pool and beautifully decorated loggia attest to Dumbarton Oaks’ history as a private residence.