Entrances
The approach, or Entrance, to a mansion or any important glass structure in a garden, should at all times receive considerable attention when the designs are being prepared. In either case, it should be kept in good order, even more particularly than other parts of the garden or park. The position of a mansion and the neighbouring town or place from which the approach proceeds, must invariably form the main conditions in determining the line the latter is to take. In some cases, where the mansion is surrounded by trees, excepting a broad open view from the front, the Entrance is made at the side, and no sight of the building obtained until it is nearly reached. This applies mostly to those built on the side of a hill, or having massive trees as a background. Many others of noble proportions, built in a valley or on ground lower than that which surrounds it, have an Entrance through a broad avenue of trees planted at right angles to the front of the building, and reaching a considerable distance. Here a perspective view of the latter is obtained on first entering, that increases in magnitude until the end is reached. In either case, as many interesting views as possible of scenery, specimen trees, ornamental water, or other permanent subjects, should be introduced along the route. The Entrance being seen first and last by strange visitors to the mansion, should be made as attractive as possible, the impressions arising therefrom and afterwards communicated, tending greatly to enhance the pleasure and interest in the surrounding taken by the proprietor himself. Entrances to glass houses, such as conservatories, &c., should receive equal attention outside, in keeping clean and tidy, as that practised in the interior. Forecourts near the entrance to a mansion, if composed of gravel, should be frequently swept and rolled.