A beautiful new piece of public art designed by a University of Westminster Harrow Campus student has recently been unveiled in Harrow. Situated on the edge of the new Northwick Parkside development – a joint venture by SNG (Sovereign Network Group) and Countryside Partnerships (part of Vistry Group) – opposite Northwick Park Hospital, illustration student Danling Su was the proud winner, with a design inspired by nature, growth and the borough of Brent.
Back in January, SNG launched a competition with the art students at the University of Westminster Harrow campus to transform a disused concrete shed that sits within the grounds of SNG’s rental accommodation at Northwick Parkside, into something that would represent the area. As well as brightening up the development, they wanted to create a community art piece that would bring joy to visitors and patients at the hospital, which overlooks Northwick Parkside.
After narrowing down the entries to a shortlist of just three, Danling Su’s design was chosen by the public via a social media vote on SNG’s channels.
Danling Su comments: “Seeing my mural design come to life has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s exciting to know that something which started as an idea in my sketchbook will become part of a real community. Throughout the project, I wanted to create a mural that reflects care, connection, and a sense of belonging. I hope it brings a small moment of comfort and positivity to everyone who passes through Northwick Park.”
Above: Danling Su with her design
The winning design celebrates the Northwick Parkside community by illustrating the connection between healthcare, education, and home life. Inspired by nature and growth, the mural uses flowers and organic forms to represent different parts of the community growing together. The apple shows how healthcare and education are connected, while the guardian represents care and protection for the community.
Mural artist Miguel Fons was instructed to bring the design to life in May. He spent nearly two weeks transforming the disused concrete shed and bringing it to life through Lexi’s design.
Miguel comments: “Working on this project has been a fantastic experience. Danling Su’s design provided a strong creative vision, and it was rewarding to help turn that vision into a landmark artwork for the community. I hope the mural helps brighten the space and gives people something inspiring and uplifting to connect with each time they pass by.”
Above: Danling Su and Lexi during the painting process
Kalumba Musambachime, Head of Sales for London & East at SNG, comments: “This project is a fantastic example of community spirit in action. From launching the competition with University of Westminster students to inviting locals to vote for their favourite design online, we’re proud to have brought people together to create a lasting piece of public art. Danling Su’s winning design has transformed what was once a tired and neglected concrete shed into a vibrant landmark that reflects the character and aspirations of the local community. We hope this artwork will be enjoyed by residents, visitors and future generations for many years to come.”
Northwick Parkside is the result of an ambitious and exciting partnership between SNG and Countryside Partnerships. Construction of the first phase of 654 homes, 50% of which are affordable, began in October 2024, with 50% of the affordable homes now sold. The next phase is due to launch in the autumn, which will include a selection of family homes and further apartments.
To find out more about the homes available at Northwick Parkside, please visit https://sales.sng.org.uk/developments/northwick-parkside.
