Today: July 8, 2025
May 7, 2025
4 mins read

Shutting up, brightly 

Three local businesses in Hammersmith & Fulham have each had their shutters beautifully painted by local artists, bringing colour, character, and charm to the borough’s shopping streets.

A fresh burst of creativity has arrived on the high streets of Hammersmith & Fulham — and it’s all thanks to a new council-backed initiative that’s turning shuttered shops into open-air canvases. 

Three local businesses — Fulham Cycles on Wandsworth Bridge Road, and Shepherds Bush neighbours Naama and Nut Case on Uxbridge Road — have each had their shutters beautifully painted by local artists, bringing colour, character, and charm to the borough’s shopping streets. 

The project is part of H&F Council’s ongoing effort to support small businesses and enhance the appearance of the local high street. The shutter art, funded entirely by the council, was co-designed by the shop owners and artists, then hand-painted free of charge. 

A Taste of Lebanon 

One of the standout pieces is at Naama, a beloved Lebanese restaurant and butcher on Uxbridge Road. Known for its kebabs, wraps, and traditional butcher counter, Naama now boasts a vibrant shutter mural featuring giant Lebanese delicacies being carried through a colourful landscape — a playful nod to the restaurant’s menu. 

The design was created by Nicky Raysa de Tania, a Royal College of Art student from the White City campus. Nicky collaborated closely with shop owner Mac, developing the artwork over several weeks to ensure it reflected the spirit of the business. 

“Over the years we’ve had to keep respraying to remove graffiti,” said Mac. “It’s expensive, time-consuming work. This artwork not only looks fantastic, but it also helps protect our storefront and enhances the whole street. I hope more local shops take part in this.” 

Nicky added: “It was so rewarding to be part of a project that puts art into the public eye. Naama is clearly a local favourite and it meant a lot to create something that Mac and the community could take pride in.” 

Squirrel Sighting on Uxbridge Road 

Just a few steps away, Nut Case, a specialist nut and snack shop, now sports a playful new identity. Artist Andrew Hulme, who grew up in Hammersmith, painted a giant cartoon squirrel wearing a striped scarf and black hat, pulling a trailer overflowing with nuts — a cheeky mascot for the shop’s offerings. 

“It’s a great look for our shop when closed,” said owner Khalil. “It brings some lovely colour to the area and really catches the eye. We’ve already had customers stopping to take pictures.” 

Artist Andrew said: “This was such a fun project to work on. Being able to give something back to the neighbourhood through my art was a brilliant feeling.” 

Pedal Power in Fulham 

Over in Fulham, Fulham Cycles has had its shutter transformed into a tribute to cycling, with a mural depicting riders coasting through rolling green hills. The piece was designed by fellow RCA student Rutu Shelke, also from the White City campus. 

“We were delighted to be involved in this initiative,” said shop founder Atif. “It gave us the perfect chance to turn a plain shutter into something uplifting and dynamic. The mural really reflects London’s love for cycling and our passion as a business.” 

Rutu, who is a strong advocate for public art, added: “Shutters are often overlooked, but they’re a perfect canvas for transforming a retail street. Projects like this make the area more colourful and welcoming for everyone.” 

More to Come 

The shutter-painting project is far from over. Hammersmith & Fulham Council is planning to extend the initiative to more high streets, bringing more artists and shopkeepers together to brighten the borough’s streetscape. 

“This project shows how art can help small businesses while also adding life and beauty to our public spaces,” said a council spokesperson. “We’re excited to see even more of our shopfronts turned into community artworks.” 

Get Involved 

Local business owners interested in joining the next wave of shutter art are encouraged to contact the council’s business support team via the H&F Business Helpdesk. 

As the borough winds down each day and shutters come down, these vibrant works of art make sure the high street stays alive — even after hours. 

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