‘When we build, let us think that we build forever. Let it not be for delight, nor for present use alone; let it be such work as our descendants will thank us for.’ These wise words by John Ruskin, the nineteenth century art critic and theorist, are quoted in the introduction to the second edition of this excellent book. They capture well it’s central theme: stewardship - how to create and, thereafter, to husband a successful and vibrant urban estate.

New London Architecture is an organisation that exists to act as a catalyst and a convenor to foster new ideas and partnerships, to improve skills and industry diversity and to encourage participation in decision making. Great Estates: Models for Modern Placemaking exemplifies well the vital role that NLA plays in drawing out the lessons of how a great city evolves and creating an environment where important ideas and knowledge can be shared and developed constructively. The author of both editions of this book is NLA’s talented researcher Sarah Yates, and the foreword is by co-founder Peter Murray OBE, without a doubt one of the most influential figures of our time.

…