
reinventing vacant spaces
At PHASES, we love to breathe life into forgotten spaces…and we know the effect a neglected building can have on the street scene. We need to keep our urban centres buzzing! By working with local authorities, property owners and other stakeholders, we transform derelict buildings and abandoned plots into vibrant places where people are inspired to spend time.
With over 20 years experience in the sector, we know that reactivating vacant sites requires not just imagination, but time, expertise and a steady hand. From legal issues and insurance, to security and logistics, we handle the essentials so that meanwhile spaces can thrive, for however long we may be custodians. At PHASES, we’re always ready to deliver some meantime magic!
So, whether it’s creating a hub to bring local people together, transforming an empty building into an arts venue, or a vacant lot into an edible garden, we’re passionate about placemaking. Our projects are all about building community, creativity and connection. At PHASES, we know how to deliver vibrant meanwhile uses that bring pride and purpose back into urban spaces.

building connections
Community hubs bring people together, strengthening local ties and wellbeing, while offering partner organisations deeper community roots, shared resources and opportunities for lasting social impact.

creative sparks
Art can transform spaces, creating exciting new venues in the city and introducing joy and colour to the urban fabric. By fostering local talent, art centres have the power to delight, engage and revive communities.

growing spaces
An urban oasis can grow more than just healthy food. It can nurture a community, sow moments of stillness and then blossom into a place where local people can connect with nature, breathe and belong.

the power of placemaking
Sustainable placemaking is all about designing and nurturing places that support both people and the planet. It brings together community, nature and thoughtful planning to create environments where people can thrive physically, socially and emotionally.
From safe streets and green spaces to affordable homes and local shops, sustainable placemaking looks at the whole picture, to ensure that every element contributes to health, wellbeing, climate resilience and a strong sense of belonging.
And when budgets are stretched, meanwhile use can help inform planning and placemaking decisions, by offering a flexible, low-cost way to trial different ideas within urban schemes. Through real-world testing and community feedback, meanwhile uses help us learn, refine and create more resilient and sustainable cities…giving everyone a chance to get involved.

Testing grounds
Meanwhile spaces can be brilliant business incubators, offering an affordable way to kick-start a small business, social enterprise or charity and build positive networks.

nature networks
Green corridors and pocket parks bring nature into the heart of cities, helping wildlife thrive and giving people everyday access to calm, shade and clean air.

living labs
Temporary installations and pilot projects allow planners and communities to co-create change—testing ideas on the ground before making long-term investments.
Want to see our latest meanwhile space?
Click HereSome of our partners
