The improvements, marking the square's 20th anniversary, include the addition of new trees and planting, enhanced lighting, additional seating, clearer signage, and a dedicated multi-use play area for children and families. Upgraded small business kiosks have also been installed around the square to provide space for local traders.
Opened in 2006 on a former derelict site, Gillett Square is adjacent to independent businesses, workspaces, and cultural venues such as Dalston Culture House, NTS Radio, and the Vortex Jazz club. It is a valued community space used daily by local people for activities like dominoes, social gatherings, and enjoying Hackney Cooperative Developments’ (HCD) pop-up playground. The square also hosts markets, festivals, and cultural events throughout the year.
The redesign was undertaken by Hackney-based architect muf architecture/art, working collaboratively with organisations around the square, its users, local schools, youth hubs, businesses, residents’ groups, and other community organisations. Funding for the improvements came from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
This project marks the completion of a key initiative set out in the Dalston Plan, Hackney Council’s 15-year vision for the area, which was informed by the views of over 5,000 local residents.
“"Gillett Square is a much-loved and vital part of Dalston. We recognise the importance of public space and its invaluable role in community life. The improvement is intended to build on that role, giving the square more space for play, community activity and events, while making it easier for people to move around and spend time there. By removing the car park, adding greenery and creating a new dedicated play area for children. We’re putting people first."
Mayor of Hackney, Zoë Garbett, added: “We’ve made more room for markets, events and community activities to make sure the space is still welcoming for long-term users who have kept the square vibrant and alive for many years. Gillett Square is a unique and cherished public space in the heart of Dalston that needs to be celebrated and preserved for generations to come.”
