From Henry Cooper’s pioneering approach to cost management in the 18th century to McBains’ reputation for innovative project and building consultancy in the 20th, our journey has been defined by strategic thinking, collaboration and an unwavering commitment to ‘finding the better way’.
Our heritage is built on a simple but powerful idea: there is always a better way.
From our origins in 1785, when Henry Cooper first introduced the concept of advising clients on project costs, to the formation of McBains in 1925 and the evolution into a modern, interdisciplinary consultancy, our history has been defined by innovation, collaboration and a commitment to improving how the built environment is delivered.
Today, as McBains, we bring together centuries of collective expertise, combining deep-rooted knowledge with a forward-looking approach to help our clients deliver with clarity, confidence and purpose.
The origins of quantity surveying
Henry Cooper & Sons is founded.
By advising clients on project costs in advance, Henry Cooper pioneers what becomes Quantity Surveying, a transformative step in bringing financial clarity to construction and the original example of 'Finding the Better Way'.
The birth of McBains
McBains is founded in London as a project and building consultancy, offering project management, surveying and cost services.
Two legacies come together
McBains and Henry Cooper merge to form McBains Cooper, combining expertise and values, and soon expand into an interdisciplinary consultancy with architecture and engineering.
Expanding internationally
McBains launches McBains Cooper Hellas in Athens, expanding into the Eastern Mediterranean with specialist advisory services.
A new chapter: McBains
Following investment from RSBG, McBains Cooper rebrands to McBains, a simpler identity reflecting its heritage and focus on continual improvement.
Centuries of collective excellence
Today, McBains represents more than two centuries of collective excellence, shaping skylines and communities since 1785 and 1925 respectively.
“Our heritage is a powerful reflection of our credibility and resilience. Over the decades, we have continually evolved; adapting to new challenges, embracing innovation and strengthening our expertise, while remaining true to the values that define us. As we look to the future, we remain committed to progress, to improvement and to continually finding a better way for our clients, our people and the built environment.”
Clive Docwra
Managing Director
Our 2025 staff conference was a special moment for the McBains team, as we came together to celebrate a remarkable milestone of 240 years since the founding of Henry Cooper and 100 years since the founding of McBains.
It was an opportunity to reflect on our shared heritage, recognise the people who shape our business today and look ahead to the future with the same commitment to innovation, collaboration and excellence that has defined us for centuries.
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