I’m excited to share that I had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with Stanley Arts on a special project called ‘Building Croydon,’ which brings the borough’s architecture and history to life for local school children. This project is part of a community programme aimed at teaching kids about the evolution of Croydon’s built environment, and I was invited to create a series of illustrations that highlight some of the area’s most iconic landmarks.
A Deep Dive into Croydon’s Architectural History
‘Building Croydon’ is a brilliant educational resource designed for KS2 students (children aged 7-11) and funded by Historic England. It provides a timeline that traces the borough’s architectural development over the centuries, offering insights into the unique characteristics of key buildings. The aim is to help students understand not just the history of Croydon, but also how its architecture has evolved and continues to change.
As Croydon’s skyline shifts rapidly with new developments, this resource is a valuable tool for reflecting on the borough’s architectural heritage. By comparing the design features and materials used in historical buildings with contemporary structures, students can better appreciate the relationship between the past, present, and future of their community.
My Contribution: Illustrating Croydon’s Landmark Buildings
For this project, I had the privilege of illustrating 10 iconic Croydon buildings, each with its own story and architectural style. The selection includes structures with centuries of history, such as Croydon Minster (dating back to the 15th century), alongside modern gems like Enclave Croydon, a new development completed in 2023. These buildings represent a fascinating contrast of architectural designs, materials, and functions.
It was truly exciting to explore how these buildings differ, from the gothic design of Croydon Minster to the sleek, modern lines of Enclave Croydon. Each structure tells a story, and it was a rewarding challenge to capture these stories through my illustrations.
Why This Project Matters
The ‘Building Croydon’ resource is more than just an educational tool—it’s an opportunity to instill a sense of pride and curiosity about local history in young students. As Croydon’s landscape continues to evolve, it’s important for future generations to understand the foundations of their community, both literally and figuratively. By learning about the architectural choices made in the past and how they relate to today’s designs, children can gain a deeper appreciation for the built environment around them.
If you’re a teacher or a parent of a KS2 student, the ‘Building Croydon’ resource is available here, offering a fascinating and educational way to engage with the borough’s architectural heritage.
Thank You
I’m so grateful to have been part of this project and to have contributed my illustrations to such an important community initiative. It was a pleasure working alongside Stanley Arts and Historic England, and I can’t wait to see how the children of Croydon engage with the resource and develop a love for their borough’s rich architectural history.