Open Up the Outside World

I, too, have witnessed the growth of the hedge wall (“The Paradox of the Hedge,” by Greg Goldin, Home Design Issue, May 22). As an architect, I believe that these green walls create dimensionless space and are mimicking the earth-tone concrete blocks being installed by Caltrans on our freeways.

I would suggest that you take a stroll down Ventura Boulevard in my Studio City/Sherman Oaks area. Little by little, the city is allowing restaurants the use of our public sidewalks to create outdoor eating areas. At first, the small garden tables and chairs reminded me of casual settings throughout Europe. But before I knew it, these restaurants were installing walls, fabric canopies and plastic roll-down blinds. Our sidewalks were disappearing. I fear that the city has begun a precedent much like that of the hedges springing up along our streets.

Cindy Lee

Studio City

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You need a retort to your instructive article about closing off the outside world. There must be plenty of us--I see so many examples around me--who have open yards, walkways and, as I do, a welcoming bench. I encourage passersby and neighbors to stop for a spell.

Imre Sutton

Fullerton