Laconia Village Master Plan

Project Introduction

City Collective played a pivotal role in the conceptualization and design of Laconia Village, collaborating with Pillsbury Realty Development to reimagine a 217 acre site in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. The team’s multidisciplinary approach integrated elements of architecture, urban planning, and landscape design to shape a vibrant, mixed-use community centered on recreation, natural beauty, and civic life to a former State Behavior Health School – transforming into a mixed-use destination.

Key Project Challenges

The project faced several significant challenges, including the steep topography of the site, the need to preserve and integrate existing wetlands and tree canopies, and the logistical complexities of connecting the property to surrounding recreational assets like Ahern State Park. Additionally, addressing the local housing affordability gap while maintaining the small-town charm of Laconia required thoughtful planning. Balancing these constraints with the aspirations of creating a year-round hub for civic and recreational activities demanded innovative solutions and extensive stakeholder engagement.

Key Project Innovations

City Collective introduced several groundbreaking strategies to overcome these challenges and realize the vision for Laconia Village. Their master plan featured a phased development approach, emphasizing walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods anchored by civic and recreational amenities. Innovations included integrating green streets and trails that link the community to surrounding natural landscapes, designing three distinct village nodes to foster activity and identity, and leveraging flexible building typologies to accommodate diverse housing needs. The plan also emphasized preserving natural features and enhancing the existing trail network to create a harmonious blend of built and natural environments.