Our Stories Heritage Plaque Commission

Our Stories celebrates Havering’s diverse heritage through the voices of local practitioners and communities. We are gathering 20 community stories, histories and memories that reveal the heart of our borough – its people, places, and connectedness.

Now we’re bringing these stories into the public realm through a series of 20 heritage plaques installed across Havering, each featuring a QR code that connects passers-by to our digital map of local heritage and the diverse stories behind them.

We’re seeking an artist, designer or maker to design and produce all 20 plaques.

About the commission
We need one unified plaque design with 20 unique versions (QR code and title variable) that will be replicated across all 20 community stories. Each plaque must include:
● Our Stories project title
● Individual story title
● 25-word story text
● QR code (scannable by the public)

Technical Requirements
● Weatherproof materials suitable for UK weather conditions
● Outdoor installation – plaques will be mounted outside (e.g. walls, lampposts, fences) across Havering
● Size: Must be large enough for QR codes to be easily scanned by the public
● Durable and vandal-resistant for long-term public display
● Material choice: Open – you propose what works best (metal, composite, ceramic, etc.)

Budget
£5,000 total fee (inc VAT) covering design development and template creation, all materials, production of all 20 plaques and delivery of plaques in 4 batches (5 plaques per phase). Please note that installation will be arranged separately by Havering London.

Who are we looking for?
We are looking for an artist who has experience producing multiple works, creating pieces for public spaces, and working with durable, weather-resistant materials suitable for outdoor installation. You should have strong design skills, with good attention to detail and clear, legible outcomes, and be able to work to agreed production timelines, including phased delivery where needed. Experience with heritage or commemorative projects is welcome, as is an understanding of inclusive and accessible design. Familiarity with QR codes, including basic sizing and placement requirements, and previous experience installing work in public spaces would also be an advantage. We’re especially keen to hear from creatives living or working in Havering, its surrounding boroughs, and the areas on the Havering–Essex border.

What matters to us
● Reliability and ability to meet deadlines across multiple phases
● Quality craftsmanship and attention to detail
● Thoughtful, considered design that honours community stories
● Clear communication and project management skills
● Understanding that these plaques represent real people’s stories and heritage

Timeline

• Application deadline: 8 March 2026
• Artist appointment:  end March 2026
• Design development: April – May 2026
• Production begins: May 2026 (delivered in phases up to end February 2027)

1. Download and read the full brief.
2. Complete the application via our Typeform. You’ll need to upload the following:
3. • CV
   • Portfolio with examples of previous work (PDF or links)
   • Brief Outline of Approach
   • Budget breakdown

All submissions must be submitted through the Typeform by Sunday 8 March, 23:59 GMT.

If you need support or have any questions please contact nompumelelo@haveringlondon.com