About us

1958 was a curious mixture of optimism and uncertainty set against the backdrop of post war austerity. Sputnik had just launched; Harold Wilson was soon to urge us to embrace the “white heat” of technology yet rationing only officially ceased in Britain four years earlier. Against this backdrop my father, John Kidd, having just completed his National Service with the Royal Navy, co-founded Kidd Rapinet Solicitors with Michael Rapinet.

The practice, which expanded rapidly across London and the southeast, was originally housed at 41 Queen Street, Maidenhead. The top floor of this building, which we still own, holds special meaning, as it served in turn as the first marital home for each of the founding partners.

By 1960, my father had purchased the Queen Street property and slowly added the neighbouring buildings which had fallen into disrepair. This decades long project finally came to fruition in 2000 when work started on the major redevelopment of the central listed building. My brother David, who adds considerable expertise in design and redevelopment, worked on every aspect of the regeneration. Dad took immense pride in being able to work together with David on a project which had so much personal meaning for him and David continues to be heavily involved in every one of our properties.

Queen Street has served as a template for all of our subsequent developments. We believe that it embodies a form of development which is sustainable and high quality. Our buildings embrace the best in modern technology without sacrificing their character. They have been developed with sympathy for their surroundings and are rooted in the local community. They are modest and aspirational.

The portfolio has grown considerably from the early 1970s. We now manage a wide range of property from warehouses to flats, farmland to hospitality venues. Each site was chosen not because of a rational business strategy but because we believe that every one is a great example of its type, is important to its location and is one which we can improve through our expertise and ongoing management.

Weir Bank in Bray, a former country house with beautiful grounds along the banks of the River Thames, now forms our Headquarters. The main house was destroyed by fire in 1970, but enough remains of its former glory to keep that link to the past fresh in our thoughts. We have an Edwardian swimming pool, a riverside Summer House and mature orchards. Another lengthy project, Weir Bank now also houses our flagship Business Centre and a prestigious Events venue. Our ongoing development modernises these buildings and venue whilst celebrating its history.

In a modest way our buildings have helped shape the local environment for residents and businesses. We take that responsibility seriously.

Once again, we are on the verge of major technological changes which will have a significant impact on our homes and offices. I am extremely optimistic that, with the support of our dedicated team of professionals, we are embracing these developments and will continue to provide excellent services and buildings in which our local communities can thrive.

We welcome you to the portfolio.

Peter Kidd
(March 2025)