All the Rage by Sukhy Hullait

Issue 168

I have lived in the neighbouring London suburbs of Peckham and East Dulwich for the majority of my adult life. When I first arrived here in the early 1990s, these areas were primarily inhabited by the working class. Peckham had a reputation for violence and social issues, while East Dulwich was regarded as the quieter counterpart. Both communities boasted ethnic diversity, with Peckham's West Indian population gradually making way for members of the African diaspora.

Historically, both Peckham and East Dulwich have experienced periods of prosperity. Peckham rose in popularity during the 16th century and evolved into a fashionable shopping district by the 19th century. In contrast, East Dulwich witnessed an upsurge in popularity from the late 1800s when the upper middle class began migrating to the area to construct large homes.

In the aftermath of World War II, both areas underwent gradual transformations. The once-renowned department stores in Peckham closed their doors, and the middle classes gradually relocated elsewhere. Meanwhile, in the 1990s and 2000s, East Dulwich underwent rapid gentrification. Numerous families sold their properties, moving to Kent, coastal towns, or constructing their dream homes in the Caribbean Islands. Shops underwent changes, with a glazier transforming into a clothier with its roots in skiing. New restaurants and bars emerged, pubs transitioned into gastropubs, and latte clutching ladies pushing expensive prams became a common sight.

Peckham, however, staunchly resisted these changes. Nevertheless, with the opening of the East London Tube Line in late 2012, the area experienced a sudden surge in popularity among the artistic and fashionable crowd, resulting in its recent accolade as "the most desirable place to live in Europe."

The transformations presented challenges for many local residents. Supermarkets closed their doors, while the introduction of establishments serving oysters on pizza, the proliferation of cafes, and craft beer taprooms felt unfamiliar. Nevertheless, a unique, vibrant spirit remains and it’s there in the people I encounter.

Sukhy Hullait (he/him) lives and works in East Dulwich, London, United Kingdom..
sukhyhullait.com | @sukhyhullait