The art of placemaking
Creating Places People Love to Call Home
Placemaking at the heart of every development
At City & Country, placemaking is more than a design principle – it’s the foundation of every development we create. We believe that great places are not just where people live, but where they connect, spend time, and build lasting memories.
As our Architectural Director, Simon Vernon-Harcourt, explains: “It’s not just about how many houses you can fit on a site – it’s about understanding its history, its surroundings, and creating somewhere people want to visit as well as live.”
Understanding the Past to Shape the Future
Every place has a story
Our process begins long before construction starts. We research each site’s history, from old maps to architectural details, uncovering the stories that make it unique. This could mean preserving hedgerows that once defined village boundaries or drawing inspiration from historic market town layouts.
As Simon notes, “There’s normally a bit of history that makes a site special – and if there isn’t much, we look to the local context to guide us.”
Designing for Community
Spaces that bring people together
We design developments that encourage interaction and a sense of belonging. This means thinking carefully about the positioning of homes, the layout of streets, and the role of shared spaces. South-facing greens, pedestrian-friendly routes, and inviting public areas help foster neighbourly connections.
“Good design naturally creates opportunities for people to meet – whether that’s parents chatting while children play, or dog walkers stopping for a conversation,” Simon Vernon-Harcourt
Blending Beauty and Function
Practicality without compromise
Attention to detail extends to the smallest elements, from the orientation of a patio for optimal sunlight to the discreet placement of solar panels to preserve a building’s character. Every decision is guided by the belief that practical features should never compromise beauty.
“If you’re inspired by traditional architecture, you can’t just stick the wrong kind of window or a solar panel in the middle of a façade – it has to be thought through.” Simon explains.
Sustainability
Sustainability in Placemaking
Designing for a greener, closer community
For us, sustainability is as much about community as it is about construction. Well-designed neighbourhoods reduce car journeys by placing amenities, green spaces, and social opportunities close to home. This supports both environmental goals and the creation of vibrant, self-sustaining communities.
Our Developments
The Result
Places that grow in character over time
The outcome of our placemaking philosophy is developments that feel instantly welcoming, yet continue to improve over time. Mature landscaping, enduring materials, and timeless design ensure each place grows in character and value for decades to come.
