Period features Mountjoy Square

remaining granite paving

the street paved granite. now, although kerbs still (probably wicklow) granite, of paving stones have been replaced concrete. exception south-west corner in front of 53–54 still has full granite paving.

many of houses on square still have original coal holes , ornate cast iron covers. these small holes in street outside each house lead coal house underneath street. these elegantly solved problem of how , cleanly deliver coal house, allowing coal men pull hole open , empty sacks of coal down through hole. basement of house had doorway coal house, under street.

the street lamps on square of 2 different designs. on outer sides, in front of houses seemingly of style called scotch standard, dating 1903 1920 when dublin streets being electrically lit part of pigeon house scheme. on inner (park) side of street, more modest design used, apparently consistent more recent 1940–50 design. these designs 9 metres tall.

in late 18th century, mud streets not uncommon

and horses common on streets. avoid muck being tramped houses, boot scrapers commonly placed outside front doors. many of these highly elaborate , many remain day.