Beautifying the Farmstead. 29 



and yet give the impression of leading to the desired end. In infor- 

 mal designs, where the distance is not too short, a curved walk or 

 drive (fig. 31) gives a more pleasing effect than a straight one. The 

 amount of curve need not be great, often a deviation of the width 

 of a walk or drive (fig. 32) will answer, while 1J times its width 

 will be ample. On the other hand, curves should not be too abrupt, 

 and there should appear to be a reason for each. Appropriate 

 plantings can often be made to supply this reason if no other can 

 be provided, and they are always useful in supplementing other 

 reasons. In a rolling or hilly country the slope of the land can 

 usually be made to give an excuse for the curves. 



FIG. 32. A satisfying result with a slightly curved roadway, a deviation of not more 



than its own width. 



Paths and roads should not only be as few as possible, but should 

 be kept out of sight as far as is feasible. Where practicable to 

 conceal them, at least partially, by construction behind knolls or 

 through depressions, it should be done if it does not interfere too 

 seriously with their directness and if good drainage can be pro- 

 vided. Often artificial knolls and depressions are constructed to 

 hide them, but this is seldom warranted unless the farmstead is large 

 and the fund for development is liberal. On the other hand, a study 

 of conditions and a little work may o c ten accomplish wonders. 

 Finally, plantings of trees or shrubbery may be used (fig. 33) after 

 everything practicable has been done in other ways. Paths should 

 not be installed where established roads can be utilized, even though 



