This is a mixed social housing development for the Guinness Trust consisting of 165 dwellings, 2 shops, a housing office and community centre. Completed in 1997, it formed part of a wider 'City Challenge' regeneration initiative and sits at a major gateway into Hulme from Manchester City Centre. This point of arrival is marked by a series of urban blocks which are grouped around a small new square. These blocks define a strong hierarchy of public and private places which are stitched into the immediate surroundings. Variations in building height and form are a direct response to urban design issues and the demands of different dwelling types. This has presented a 'cityscape' of unusual richness which is tied together by a consistent language, using a restrained pallet of traditional materials. An extensive design-led participatory process gave residents the opportunity to be involved at all stages and resulted in a strong sense of belonging and ownership on the part of the local community. These strategies for successful place making and enriched neighbourhoods have fundamentally influenced our later work. The project received an RIBA Award (1998).