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 community organisations, cultural partners, local authorities, housing associations, business improvement districts and developers.

Our work includes:

forest
bathing

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

london
walkshops

Mindful walks and creative inspiration walking sessions that invite participants to unplug, see things differently and spark fresh ideas.

mindful art
sessions

Relaxed gatherings for creativity, tiny experiments 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.

Shape Something Great

Start the conversation with us and let’s explore what we could create together.

  • "This was a terrific retreat and Clare has a wonderful engaging presence. She is very welcoming, of gentle disposition and put everyone at ease very quickly."

    Participant
    Advocacy Charity

  • “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. 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

  • "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

  • “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!”

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

  • "Really lovely session. Delivered well in a relaxing environment. I needed this."

    Participant
    Heritage Charity