A breathtaking photograph of a fiery sunset over the Welsh Harp Reservoir has clinched first prize in a nature photography contest hosted by Barratt London at its Hendon Waterside development. The victorious image, captured by 35-year-old resident Yadong Niu, was selected by judges for its bold colours and striking depiction of the area's natural beauty.
Capturing the Harmony of Hendon Waterside
The competition invited residents to explore and photograph the local environment, from wildlife at the reservoir to the changing woodland landscapes. It aimed to celebrate the biodiversity of Hendon and highlight the unique setting of the community. Yadong Niu's winning entry, taken at sunset, shows the sky ablaze with colour, reflected perfectly in the lake's surface.
"The reflection on the lake beautifully magnified the glow of the clouds, creating a stunning scene," Niu commented. "A group of Canada geese floating across the water, set against the backdrop of distant high-rise buildings added to the sense of harmony and serenity. The wildlife, lake, trees, and architecture all represent what Hendon Waterside means to me."
A New Home and a Winning Shot
Yadong Niu, an accountant who relocated from Derby with his wife after securing a job in London, purchased his first home—a one-bedroom flat—at Hendon Waterside in August 2024. He cited the desire to be close to central London while living in a residential area as key reasons for the move, with a commute of around 20 minutes to Farringdon via Thameslink.
"Since moving to Hendon Waterside, I have truly fallen in love with the area," he said. "It’s a place where birds sing, flowers bloom, and nature thrives. With its expansive lakes, untouched woodlands, and rich variety of birds and trees, it offers an idyllic setting." As his prize, Niu received a £100 gift voucher, and the top entries are now displayed on site hoardings.
Celebrating Waterside Living in Barnet
Daniel Farenden, Projects Director for Barratt London, stated: "We wanted to give our residents the opportunity to explore and connect with the natural beauty of our development. It was amazing to see all the photo submissions, and it was no easy feat to choose just one winner."
Hendon Waterside is part of the wider £9.6bn regeneration of Barnet. Situated by the Welsh Harp Reservoir, it offers over 170 hectares of green space, nature trails, water sports clubs, and amenities including an on-site Co-Op and Starbucks. The development boasts strong transport links, with Hendon Railway Station a five-minute walk away and the M1 motorway easily accessible.
Prices for a one-bedroom apartment at Hendon Waterside start from £375,000. The competition successfully underscored the development's blend of community and natural surroundings, promoting the best of waterside living in the capital.
