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Client: West Northamptonshire Council
Landscape Architect: Gillespies LLP
Artist: Mel Chantrey (The Fountain Workshop)
Contractor: Stepnell Construction (Main) Danaher & Walsh (Paving)

Onsite photography courtesy of: Mike Massaro (London) 

Factory photography courtesy of: Alistair Taylor (Hardscape)

Inspirational forward thinking for a revitalised market square

Overview

Town centres have been evolving for centuries, adapting to changing uses and needs. Northampton, however, was struggling due to a lack of investment across the town centre, which had left it looking tired and rundown. To address this, Northampton Forward was established to secure funding for regeneration. By bringing together local businesses and working closely with the council, the initiative was able to apply for resources needed to launch revitalisation projects. One top priority was transforming Market Square, focusing on reinvigorating the heart of the town centre and expanding improvements outward.

The project, initiated by West Northamptonshire Council and officially opened in October 2024, aimed to revitalise the space, create an attractive and accessible area for residents and visitors, and preserve its historic charm. The redesign focused on high-quality paving and bespoke street furniture that reflects Northampton’s character while providing a modern, functional urban environment.

Bespoke Seating and Water Features

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The Council focused on highlighting both heritage and culture while ensuring high-quality design throughout. Bringing in a professional team, including landscape architects Gillespies LLP, contractors Stepnell Construction and Danaher & Walsh together with Mel Chantrey from The Fountain Workshop, the Council explored ways to reflect the area’s history in every detail.

Mel collaborated extensively with local businesses to incorporate design inspiration centred around Northampton’s heritage – especially its storied history in shoemaking into the creation of the water feature. The result is a fountain that beautifully captures the essence of the town’s legacy and craftsmanship.

Mel described his approach as that of a “creative adventurer.” Invited by the Council to design a unique, interactive installation, he sought to reflect Northampton’s cultural heritage, particularly its historic connection to shoemaking. Inspiration struck after a visit to the Shoe Gallery at Northampton Museums and Art Gallery, where deconstructed shoes and traditional wooden shoe forms sparked ideas for the project. This discovery led him to Springline, the UK’s last maker of wooden shoe lasts, and eventually to Tricker’s, a renowned Northampton fine shoemaker. Inspired by these local artisans, Mel designed the seating that mirrors the idea of “trying on” shoes, aiming for interaction and comfort. Working with materials like Plasticine, he modelled organic shapes for seats that invite engagement and play.

John Kirk, Springline’s senior model maker, took the Plasticine models and created wooden versions which, when combined, contributed to the design aesthetic and CNC manufacturing process of the finished seating looking literally like sculptural works of art thanks to the masonry team at Hardscape Surfaces, in particular Paul Roznowski, for his relentless attention to detail and passion to see the project through to completion under Mel’s watchful eyes!

The water feature, built in 14 segments and weighing over 30 tons, combines playful elements, like illuminated, disco-like grills, creating a space designed to foster community and vibrancy. Mel envisions the square as a lively, cosmopolitan gathering spot, transformed into a destination filled with light, laughter, and social energy.

Video courtesy of AR-Media Productions

When I got back to the studio, it took a bit of time, but the penny eventually dropped. I thought wouldn’t it be great if you could actually try a seat on? So, I started chasing down an idea that sitting down could be a bit like trying a pair of shoes on; is it too big? Is it too small? Do I sit this way? Do I sit that way?

Mel Chantrey

There were two major upsides to the project for Hardscape; basically the Prima Porphyry paving from the North East of Italy and then the bespoke sculptured seating elements as well, produced at Hardscape Surfaces, made from Alpendurada Amarelo European granite, which incorporated the innovative water feature; both forming a big part of the overall finished project.

Hardscape’s Mike Prince

More than a sole Conclusion

The newly revitalised Market Square in Northampton has become a vibrant community hub, blending functionality with social engagement to enhance the heart of the town. Designed to support local markets, public events, and everyday gatherings, the transformation reflects a collaboration that values both historical preservation and future adaptability.

Hardscape’s contribution of supplying premium paving together with bespoke street furniture, manufactured and crafted at Hardscape Surfaces, exemplifies the synergy between durability, artistry, and place-specific character.

This thoughtful renovation is a testament to the impact of combining top-quality materials with community-driven design. Hardscape’s involvement underscores how creative, long-lasting elements can rejuvenate public spaces, providing a foundation for generations to connect and enjoy. The successful completion of this project shows how public and private sector partnerships, alongside specialist suppliers and designers, can breathe new life into historic areas.

Collaboratively, we’ve helped to create an inviting destination that Northampton residents and visitors will appreciate for years to come.