Sidney Street Estate in Somers Town is celebrated for its striking sculptural works by renowned artist Gilbert Bayes. The original Sidney Street Estate was demolished to make way for the new estate, completed in 1938 to replace the slums. Architect Ian Hamilton led the design, characterised by yellow stock brick and a practical, utilitarian style. The estate’s architectural appeal is richly enhanced by Bayes’ artwork: a series of half-roundels or lunettes above select balconies, featuring vibrant glazed pottery figures in high relief, complemented by finely detailed finials.
Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, The Princess and the Swineherd, tells the story of a prince who disguises himself as a swineherd. He possesses a magical stewpot that emits smoke, revealing the aroma of every meal being cooked in town to anyone who touches it. Intrigued by this wonder, the princess longs to have the stewpot so much that she agrees to the swineherd’s outrageous price of ten kisses. Yet, the tale ultimately takes a tragic turn.
These lunettes illustrate scenes from classic fairy tales, each featuring a central circular motif with two main characters, surrounded by triangular segments filled with complementary imagery. Designed by Bayes, a specialist in architectural sculpture, these pieces are crafted for maximum visibility from afar, enhanced by vivid colours. Especially notable is the depiction of The Little Mermaid from Hans Christian Andersen’s story; she tenderly holds the sleeping Prince, framed by nautical elements like ships, stylised waves, and seaweed, forming a cohesive maritime theme.
Another lunette depicts The Goosegirl from Grimm’s Fairy Tales, showcasing a Princess alongside two birds—one adorned with a crown around its neck, the other crowned atop its head—set against elaborate floral and architectural motifs. Rich colours and meticulous details amplify the artwork’s captivating beauty.
Other missing finials showcased designs such as black birds, green fish, and mythical creatures. A Christmas tree finial also remains, probably a reproduction.
Elsewhere on the estate, the washing line post finials were originally adorned with miniature ships, though most have since been replaced with replicas due to theft. A few original finials were recovered at auction as recently as 2015.
Ornamental ironwork throughout the estate showcases recurring floral motifs, anchors, and sharks in relief, highlighted by a blue plaque honouring Father Basil Jellicoe, founder of the St Pancras House Improvement Society. Notable features include a gate decorated with a small child standing on a book, framed by a glowing sunburst design.
The Little Mermaid