Young designers reimagine their London estate

16–25-year-olds from the White City Estate in the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham are working to help redesign their local area.

The 14 young designers are developing and displaying their ideas through sketching, collaging and model making as the Council looks to build more affordable housing for local residents.

The young designers are helping the Council to create more inclusive and accessible community spaces alongside the White City Central project’s professional design team.

The redeveloped area between India Way and Canada Way will see up to 260 new homes built – at least 50% of which will be affordable housing for local residents.

Green space and communities facilities will also be built, including a community hub, creche, adventure playground and communal gardens and sports facilities.

Cllr Andrew Jones, Hammersmith & Fulham’s Cabinet member for the economy, said: ‘I was delighted to see the ideas from the young designers. We’re committed to working with all residents as we upgrade White City’s spaces and facilities. We’re determined to build more genuinely affordable new homes in White City and we also want it to look great.’

The young designers were paid the London Living Wage and those interested in taking the opportunity further have been offered the chance to complete future work experience placements.

One young designer, Emily, said: ‘I was surprised by how many units will be created in the new area and I hope these will help people who really need housing. I enjoyed creating 3-D models of a small section of the area.’

Subject to planning permission, construction will begin mid-2023, with the first phase completed by mid-2025.

In related news, space has been cleared for more than 150 town centre homes as Bolton Council’s Central Street development begins to take shape.

Photo supplied by Hammersmith & Fulham Council