Fairfax Corner, York
Fairfax Corner was established in 2005 as an eco-friendly self-catering accommodation project. At that time, there were few small-scale examples of sustainable hospitality in practice. The project was developed as a place-based experiment, exploring how environmental responsibility could be integrated into everyday accommodation without compromising comfort, affordability, or usability.
The accommodation has remained in continuous operation for over seventeen years and continues to attract a strong and consistent level of demand. Its longevity has provided evidence of the viability of environmentally responsible approaches within small-scale hospitality and has informed the development of subsequent projects within the organisation.
In 2019, the project expanded to include the activation of the former ground-floor shop as a community-facing space. Following the closure of the area’s last local grocer, the shop was reintroduced as a shared local resource. Its initial use as a Community Fridge supported the redistribution of surplus food and created opportunities for engagement around composting, food waste, and sustainable food systems.
When the Community Fridge reached its natural conclusion, the space was retained as an incubator for new, locally rooted activity rather than reverting to private use. An open call for proposals invited ideas aligned with principles of community benefit, skills development, and long-term stewardship. The space is now occupied by Schuti Schuti, a concept patisserie founded by Ester, supporting small-scale production and independent enterprise while continuing the site’s role as a neighbourhood asset.
Buttercup, Knaresborough
2 Butter Lane, Knaresborough was acquired in 2023 to provide the market town with a flexible, place-based space to support environmental action and community-led experimentation. The intention was to create a low-barrier setting where ideas, projects, and conversations focused on nature, sustainability, and local resilience could be tested and developed.
Throughout 2024, the space operated as a pop-up venue used by a range of groups and practitioners. Activities focused on exploring practical and reflective approaches to strengthening connections between people and the natural environment, addressing both local concerns and wider ecological themes. The temporary and adaptable nature of the space allowed it to respond to different needs over time, supporting early-stage initiatives and collaborative working.
In 2025, the project evolved into Buttercup, a simple pop-up cafe. The cafe operates as both a social anchor and a platform for engagement, providing an informal setting that supports conversation, learning, and participation. Its operation builds on the site’s earlier use as an incubator space, maintaining flexibility while introducing a consistent, welcoming presence within the town.