Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, recently visited West Herts College to see parks and open spaces designs made by the students for their studies...
The creative designs focused on making the parks even better, blending art with practical ideas. Walking around the classroom, the Mayor was impressed as he talked to the students, appreciating their fresh ideas and clever solutions.
He said “The students' designs really show their incredible talent. I was very impressed by their creativity and skill, particularly in landscaping. It is so important that we consider ideas put forward by the local community so that our parks and open spaces are the best that they can be.”
Alan Smallwood, Interior Design & Architecture Course Leader at West Herts College, said: “Participating in real-life projects, such as this collaboration with the Watford Borough Council, prove invaluable for our interior design and architecture students. These experiences extend beyond the curriculum, offering hands-on learning opportunities that sharpen their skills, instil a profound understanding of community needs, and empower them to become proactive contributors in shaping a better, more sustainable future for urban environments."
Graham Hall, was one of the students who participated in the project, he added: "Designing for Watford's Open Space project honed my real-world skills. Balancing creativity within constraints, crafting a serene area, and collaborating with stakeholders shaped my community-focused mindset. It's more than designs—it's about creating meaningful spaces."