Skip to the page's content

Housing & Masterplanning

Great urban design starts simply: often with a pencil sketch. That human connection matters. From there, we use the best digital tools to refine, test and deliver ideas – always keeping people at the heart of the process.

Aerial view of Northstowe
Marc Mann / Alamy Stock Photo

Masterplanning and urban design shape not just places, but how people live, work and connect. We bring experience, creativity and commercial awareness together to make projects happen – from small-scale changes to major developments that transform communities.

Strong design comes alive through consultation. We bring together planners, designers, local authorities, developers, communities and stakeholders to build a shared vision. This approach not only strengthens relationships, but also secures faster, more confident planning approvals.

We know the commercial pressures you face. That's why we align creativity with economics - monitoring project viability, helping attract investment and making sure design adds real value. We've challenged assumptions, opened up greenfield sites and delivered unexpected solutions that stand the test of time.

 

Shaping future communities

We believe the best urban design combines creativity, consultation and commercial understanding. That's how we deliver places that work for everyone – today and for the future.

  • Strategic masterplanning and urban design.
  • Mixed use development frameworks.
  • Regeneration and placemaking strategy.
  • Community and stakeholder consultation.
  • Design for planning approvals.
  • Investment and development viability advice.
  • Sustainable urban design integration.

 

“I have worked with Peter O'Rourke and his team at McBains for a number of years, over many, many projects and it remains a pleasure. Providing consistent, high-quality support Peter and his skilled team of architects add value to all projects ensuring timely delivery of well-designed schemes helping to support us as developers, managing costs and maximising future sales revenue potential. A go-to in the undustry”

Elaine Connolly

Bellway Homes

Who we work with

We work with local authorities, housing developers, urban designers, and private investors to create residential and mixed-use communities. Our projects span strategic masterplans, regeneration schemes and sustainable housing developments, delivering places that are functional, connected and people-focused.

Allison Homes

/

Barratt Homes

/

Bellway Homes

/

Cala Homes

/

Crest Nicholson

/

Dandara

/

David Wilson Homes

/

Glenrowan Homes

/

Hayfield Homes

/

Hightown Housing Association

/

Lagan Homes

/

Land and Partners

/

Living Space Housing

/

Midtown Capital

/

Mulberry Homes

/

Taylor Wimpey

/

Redington Capital

/

Redrow Homes

/

Untypical Group

/

Vistry

/

Bloor Homes

People who make it work

Our urban designers thrive on complexity and collaboration. For you as our client, that means creative ideas grounded in commercial reality. For future colleagues, it's an opportunity to shape projects that directly impact communities, economies and environments – work with a real legacy.

Latest from McBains

Stay informed with the latest news, insights, and stories from our team.

Discover More

McBains explains

Get the latest insights from McBains and industry news to your inbox.

By submitting your email address you are agreeing to us storing your data for the purpose of sending you a newsletter.