Beneath our feet, the Victoria Line hums. Yet, above ground, we find ourselves in Gibson Square. This garden square offers a serene escape in Islington. It’s named after Thomas Milner Gibson. He was an MP and free-trade advocate.
Gibson leased this land in 1823. He planned to develop it into housing. His architect, Francis Edwards, designed the estate. It included Gibson Square and Milner Square. Construction started in 1836. It was completed by 1839. Originally the names of the squares were reversed.
Theberton Street borders the south side of Gibson Square. It’s named after Gibson’s country house. Louis England, a timber merchant, built the square. The houses were initially for middle-class residents. But over time, the area changed.
In the mid to late 19th century, the middle class left. Poorer residents replaced them. Dr. Edward Ballard noted unsanitary conditions. He reported “mortality from tubercular diseases.”
By the 20th century, Gibson Square became impoverished. Absentee landlords tenemented the houses. They were often let in single rooms.
Around 1960, things began to improve. Middle-class professionals returned. They refurbished the houses. Journalists, architects, and lawyers moved in. They sought characterful properties with city access. House values soared as a result.
Gibson Square boasts a unique look. Identical long terraces face each other. They are located on the east and west sides. Pavilion blocks stand at each end. The terraces feature central groups supporting a cornice. The end groups have pediments and pilasters.
The north terrace is slightly shifted. This is due to the exit road to Milner Square. A corner building was burnt out in 1974. It was replaced in 1988. The new building has an Egyptian and Art Deco theme.
Many houses retain original features. These include fireplaces, shutters, and pine panelling. Folding doors connect the downstairs parlours.
Originally, the central gardens had locked gates. Only residents with keys could enter. In the 1930s, residents gave the gardens to Islington Council. During World War II, they were used for air-raid shelters. Post-war, the gardens were restored.
Look closely at the “classical temple” in the gardens. It’s actually a ventilation shaft for the London Underground.
In 1963, a ventilation shaft was planned for the Victoria Line. The Gibson Square Protection Society fought the original design. They succeeded in getting it modified. Raymond Erith designed the current structure. Quinlan Terry assisted him. London Transport also restored the gardens. They repaved the paths and installed railings.
Gibson Square has been home to notable people. Robert Carrier, a restaurateur, lived here. Thomas Edlyne Tomlins, a legal writer, also resided here. Samuel Maunder, a writer, once called this place home. Angus McBean, a photographer, lived here too.
Take a moment to appreciate Gibson Square. It’s a testament to community and preservation. This square protects its history. It also embraces the future.