These walls breathe breakthrough. That’s what they say about The Tabernacle in Notting Hill. Today, we’re standing before a Grade II listed building. It is now a cultural hub, but it began as something quite different.
Let’s step back to 1869. Gordon Forlong, a former barrister turned evangelical preacher, founded a church. It was first known as The Talbot Tabernacle. Forlong wanted a non-sectarian Church of Christ. He started with a temporary iron church that could hold about 1,000 people.
Fast forward to 1887. The current building of The Tabernacle was constructed. Architects Habershon and Fawckner designed it. The structure boasts a curved Romanesque facade. Red brick and terracotta form its distinct look. Two towers with broach spires stand on either side. Some have even called The Tabernacle the Taj Mahal of North Kensington.
The Tabernacle served as a church until the 1970s. Then, it transformed into a community arts center. Local enthusiasts leased it from the Kensington and Chelsea Council. They organized events and provided services for the local community. The area was disadvantaged at the time. The Tabernacle became a vital resource.
Despite the community’s efforts, The Tabernacle struggled financially. The main hall remained undeveloped for years. However, its location was always full of stories. Powis Square, where The Tabernacle is located, saw social change. It became a multicultural hub with Jewish and Indian communities.
The area also faced challenges. In the 1950s, Powis Square was linked to Peter Rachman’s slum empire. It was a site of the 1958 Notting Hill race riots. Yet, it also marked a checkpoint for the first Notting Hill Carnival in 1966.
The Tabernacle has a surprising connection to rock and roll history. During the 1990s, The Rolling Stones and Pink Floyd rehearsed here. The Tabernacle became a place where music legends created. In 1998, The Tabernacle reopened after a 4 million pounds refurbishment. The upgrades included a new hall, studios, an art gallery, and a bar-restaurant.
The Tabernacle continues to evolve. It is no longer a religious space. Now, it serves the secular needs of the community. The Carnival Village Trust and Tabernacle W11 manage the venue. They work on behalf of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
Many famous names have graced The Tabernacle over the years. Lily Allen debuted on stage in an early 90s panto here. In 2011, Adele performed as her album “21” launched nearby. From rock legends to community events, The Tabernacle has truly seen it all. It stands as a symbol of resilience and community spirit. The Tabernacle is more than just a building. It is a living, breathing part of Notting Hill’s vibrant history.