THE LONDON SQUARE: Gardens in the Midst of Town.

Abstract

THE LONDON SQUARE: Gardens in the Midst of Town. By TODD LONGSTAFFE--GOWAN. 348 pp.; maps, ills., bibliog., index. New Haven, Conn.: Yale University Press, 2012. $65.00 (cloth), ISBN 9780300152012. Todd Longstaffe-Gowan has assembled a visually striking work with in-depth historical, geographical, and landscape analyses in The London Square. The subject (the square) is examined as a fundamental element of London itself, and through this particular form of urban space many aspects of English culture, history, and philosophy are revealed. Longstaffe-Gowan examines the sociopolitical context of the squares, delving deep into the contested nature of their construction and design philosophy. Throughout London, these open spaces reflected conflicting and changing social values as represented in the varying emphases on vegetation, gates, and surrounding residences. As such, Longstaffe-Gowan engages with questions of social division, park access, and ultimately the relevance of to the physical, social, and economic development of London. In addition to the significant historical approach, the paintings and photographs used throughout offer the reader a stunning reference point. Attempting to situate London as unique to other cities, Longstaffe-Gowan does not claim to provide a comprehensive survey of the square, but rather proposes to touch on the major developments over the last four centuries. Regardless of intent, this work is deeply historical and, at times, the intense concentration on English landscape philosophy and requisite knowledge of London geography can be somewhat distracting for a broader audience. Indeed, the author assumes that the reader has a strong understanding of both the historical geography of London and the nuances of its many neighborhoods. For those who do, the introductory chapters are likely to captivate. For others, however, the emphasis on particular places, people, and events draws some focus away from the broader themes of the square at the expense of a solid narrative. Still, this historical context and the discussion of particular London landscapes are helpful in laying the foundation for further understanding. The square is described as distinct from other English open spaces such as the common because it served--in the early years--as a provision for persons of quality (p. 25). Throughout the eighteenth century, London's elite felt the added value to their neighborhoods, particularly in contrast to other constructions of open space that were more remote. As London became known for its multitude of fine squares (p. 43), a new discourse emerged regarding the value of a rural aesthetic in town. As the city itself evolved, so too did the square. The concept of rus in urbe is addressed because, within London at this time, the square was largely seen as a way of re-creating in the city what was being lost (that is, the country) as a result of urban growth. Increased urban density prompted designers to draw the country into the city through strategic landscape design. What was originally built as the domain of privileged classes began to evolve into something else. It is the increasing complexity of the social evolution of London in the eighteenth century that brings forth a stronger voice from the author. …