Once, this very spot reverberated with the roar of Arsenal fans. Now, it stands as the elegant Highbury Square.
Highbury Square is a residential complex. It stands where Arsenal Football Club’s Highbury Stadium once stood. The stadium was Arsenal’s home for 93 years. The club moved to the Emirates Stadium in 2006. This move left a void. Highbury Stadium held immense sentimental value.
The redevelopment of Highbury Stadium into Highbury Square began in 2006. It was completed in 2009. The architectural firm Allies and Morrison designed the renovation. Critics praised the design. They lauded its feeling of openness. They also noted its provision of protection and privacy.
The original Highbury Stadium had two main stands. These were the East and West stands. They were rebuilt in the 1930s in the Art Deco style. These facades remain a part of Highbury Square today. The North Bank and Clock End were demolished. The pitch was transformed into gardens. Parts of the original stadium were kept. These include the marble halls and the players’ tunnel. Even the bust of Herbert Chapman remains. Arsène Wenger, the Arsenal manager, officially opened Highbury Square in 2009.
Highbury Square comprises 650 flats. These flats have access to many communal services. A public footpath runs through the square. This allows access to the space.
Highbury Square incorporated sustainable design. It includes a large solar thermal heating installation. This was one of the largest of its kind in Europe when built. A combined heat and power plant feeds into a district heating system. This serves the entire development.
The design retains the geometry of the old pitch. The garden mirrors the dimensions of the former playing field. This creates a link to the past. The design incorporates a modern aesthetic. Apartments feature extensive glazing and balconies. These overlook the garden.
The largest buildings within Highbury Square are the apartment blocks. They feature glazed facades facing the garden. The buildings facing the street present brick facades. Smaller mews buildings have rendered white exteriors.
Highbury Square balances public access with resident privacy. A public thoroughfare crosses the site. This connects Avenell Road to Highbury Hill. It allows continued visual access to the heritage site.
Highbury Square stands as a testament to innovative design. It blends history with modern living. It preserves the memory of Arsenal’s home. It creates a vibrant residential community. The project has won awards. These include the MIPIM Special Jury Award in 2009. Highbury Square is more than just an apartment complex. It is a living legacy.