Donna Wilson

Painted Landscapes, 2014

Paint and plywood
Children’s ward 7F, Royal London Hospital

Awarded designer of the year 2010 by Elle Decoration’s British Design Awards, Donna Wilson brought the outside in to The Royal London Children’s Hospital.

“One of the most important things for me was to make the hospital not feel like a hospital. I wanted the patients, parents and nurses all to feel relaxed, happy and stimulated by the environment that surrounds them and by using design you can lift the mood and wellbeing of the people there.

I’ve enjoyed seeing and hearing the reactions of not just the children but the parents too who are so pleased that the ward feels happier, colourful and less sterile and intimidating. This makes it so worthwhile and hugely rewarding for me as a designer.”

Donna Wilson

Our patients have also had a chance to get involved, with help from our arts participation team Donna has invited young patients, parents and hospital staff to make their mark on the Children’s ward. Concentrating on patients who are frequent visitors to the ward, young participants are invited to select their own hill or mountain, choose their stamps and colours and, after a quick rehearsal, stamp their designs directly onto the walls.

Best known for her knitted creatures Donna Wilson set up her company in 2003 after graduating from the Royal College of Art. Her signature odd creatures sold out and since then she has built her business designing and making a collection of curious cushions, luxurious lambswool blankets, and variety of products for the home. Originally from Scotland, Donna runs a studio and workshop in London.

Photography by Joe Clark

This project has been kindly funded by Barts Charity