placemaking with purpose

Good placemaking isn’t just about spaces. It’s about the people, stories and shared moments that make a place feel alive. At Urban Curiosity, we believe that placemaking should be about people first.

Our approach blends mindful walking, nature discovery, storytelling and participatory arts to shape vibrant, inclusive and meaningful spaces that truly nurture and empower Londoners.

what we do

We design and deliver placemaking initiatives in collaboration with the Voluntary Community Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector, cultural organisations, ICIs, local authorities, housing associations and developers.

Our work includes:

forest
bathing

Nature-led experiences that help people pause, reflect and reconnect with themselves and their surroundings.

london
walkshops

Creativity and mindful walking sessions that invite participants to unplug, see things differently and  spark fresh ideas.

mindful art
sessions

Creative spaces that explore self-expression, resilience and belonging in a no-pressure environment.

zine-making & conversation
circles

Uplifting workshops that encourage dialogue, minimise isolation and inspire creative mindfulness.

writing for
wellbeing

Reflective writing for self-discovery and resilience.

walking
book club

An experience that turns reading into a shared, immersive journey.

How We Work

We work collaboratively with partners who care about meaningful engagement, social inclusion and creative health. We can support you in:

fundraise

Community engagement
& creative consultation

Creating experiences that amplify voices, tell untold stories and build deeper connections.

Partnership-
building &
funding support

Helping organisations form ethical, values-driven collaborations that enhance social impact.

Strategic insight
& project development

Turning ideas into actionable, people-centred placemaking projects.

Raise money with more focus and less overwhelm.

Let’s Collaborate!

Discover how we create a placemaking project that makes a lasting impact.

  • “As a contributor to our online MA Creative Writing and Wellbeing course Clare shared her many years of practical expertise in this area with warmth, kindness and openness. Students benefitted immensely from her knowledge of facilitation and thoughtful reflections on being a writer in the world.”

    Dr Megan C. Hayes, Lecturer
    Teesside University

  • “Clare Barry delivered a wonderful guided walk in the woodlands at Memorial Hospital to take our staff on a much needed break from their daily pressures and reconnect with their senses and nature. Staff found it really useful. A highly recommended experience to mitigate the impact of our busy lives.”

    Karen Janody, Sustainability Manager
    Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust

  • “Thank you for sharing your talent, skills, knowledge and experience with us and our community to inspire and encourage positive action and change. You have been so amazing! We appreciate it very much and the feedback we received after all the events echo how all the attendees feel.”

    Lianne De Vera, Communications & Marketing Manager
    Somers Town Community Association