This video is closed-captioned in English and Spanish. Este video tiene subtítulos en inglés y español.
Designed by Farrand in the 1920s around an existing Fagus sylvatica ‘Riversii’, the darkest of the English beeches, the terrace is surrounded by a brick and flagstone wall, chosen to approximate the building materials of the adjoining Orangery and Main House. The size and elevation of the terrace were chosen to accommodate the beech's root system and to disturb the drainage and root system as little as possible. But despite preventive measures, the tree declined and was removed in 1948 and replaced by a green-leaved American beech, Fagus grandifolia. Each spring, small bulbs of Crocus tomasinianus, Scilla siberica, and Chionodoxa luciliae, grow among the beech’s exposed shallow root system.
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.