Central Gates, Gate Piers And Railings To The Former Firestone Factory

The central gates, gate piers, and railings are part of the former Firestone Factory, dating to 1928 and designed by Wallis, Gilbert and Partners. The structure comprised a central pedestrian entrance and includes a pair of outer piers, two original runs of railings, a pair of gate piers with double gates, two lantern plinths flanking a set of shallow steps, and a pair of lower piers at the top of the steps. Constructed from reinforced concrete, the piers are notable for their Jazz Modern design: they are pylon-shaped with staggered keystone motifs at the top and fluted upper friezes. The lantern plinths have similar profiles and scrolled ornament. The railings are of Egyptian design, featuring square rails with blunt terminals. The double gates incorporate central circular bosses with shields displaying the letter 'F', supported by X-shaped motifs. The associated lanterns have square bases with winged 'F' designs, reeded tapering circular standards, and lanterns topped with chevron ornament and gilt ribs. The other remaining railings and piers have been altered. This entrance served the now-demolished Firestone Factory, which was celebrated as a fine example of interwar industrial architecture. The factory’s demolition occurred in 1980, shortly before it was due to be listed. It reflects the industrial expansion of interwar London, the development of arterial roads and automotive industries, and the Modernistic architectural style prevalent in factories of the time. Wallis, Gilbert and Partners were leading architects of this style.