Design Havens for Heroes
1458. Francesca Rowan-Plowden
Francesca Rowan-Plowden, from East Sussex, founded ‘Design Havens for Heroes’, bringing together 300 volunteer designers and 600 brands to create 'havens' for frontline workers by redecorating their homes free of charge.
As an interior designer, Francesca wanted to use her creative talents and those of fellow designers, stylists and tradespeople, to give something back to NHS workers in response to the pandemic, supporting their wellbeing by ensuring their living spaces can help reduce stress and anxiety.
In a personal letter to Francesca, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“On behalf of the whole country, I want to thank you for harnessing the talent of hundreds of your fellow designers to create the fantastic ‘Design Havens for Heroes’.
“Together with the support of hundreds of brands, you are transforming the homes of frontline workers and giving them the haven they so deserve.
“Your initiative is a wonderful way of expressing our gratitude as a nation to the extraordinary men and women whose courage and dedication is saving so many lives and helping us to defeat Coronavirus.”
Francesca said:
“I am incredibly honoured to receive the Points of Light award and to be recognised by the Prime Minister.
“During this time of COVID-19 we have all realised the importance of our home and work environments, and I am delighted that at ‘Design Havens for Heroes’ we are able to support the incredible NHS by improving their homes and work places.
“It is an absolute privilege to receive this award on behalf of the team and collective at Design Havens for Heroes and to provide Havens for the NHS Heroes.”