Child jumping on stone objects in circular planting bed.
A path and green space populated with people overlooking a canal.
Photograph of Hanover Square from above, showing grassy space and trees with some tall buildings in the background.
A person wearing a bright red jacket and boots looks up while holding up a microphone and wearing red headphones.

Citymaking is a cultural act

Publica is a London-based urban design and research practice working in the UK and internationally. We are trusted experts on complex city-making projects. Guided by clear principles, we strive to realise the social, cultural, and environmental values embedded in our neighbourhoods.

Photograph of the edge of Hanover Square taken from above with green bushes and trees and people walking on the pavement around it.

Our Approach

Our approach begins with listening: to the city, its communities, and its history. Through rigorous research and a deep understanding of local context, each project is established by place-specific conditions. By engaging with diverse perspectives, we develop transformative proposals for change that reflect the lived experiences of the people who use these spaces.

About Publica

Our Expertise

Over sixteen years, Publica has defined a field of practice that emphasises research-led decision-making, an integrated approach to planning and development, and the application of bold and creative ideas through strategic urban design.

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Visions, Strategies and Masterplans

Principle-led holistic visions, strategies and briefs for neighbourhoods, masterplans, streets and public spaces

People walking on the pavement in front of a high street of shops

Urban Design

Bold, ambitious designs for public spaces that celebrate civic dignity and enhance everyday life

Research

Objective, data-driven research foregrounding lived experience to inform strategy, governance, and design

An illustrated view of a London block at night with a playground, Underground station and activity in buildings on ground floors and upper levels.

Evening & Night-Time

Strategy and design for cities, neighbourhoods and streets that support safe, social and active lives for all between 6pm and 6pm

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Inclusive Cities

Pioneering radical and collaborative approaches to city-making, where all people can participate freely and fully in urban life

Our Impact

We pride ourselves on working with clients who understand the immediate and long-term value of caring for our shared urban spaces.

Our diverse range of clients and collaborators include local and statutory authorities, major landowners, developers, business improvement districts, architects, and community, cultural and third sector organisations.

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Publica’s work is of enormous worth to the Capital and its residents and visitors. Its leadership at the forefront of urban planning has dramatically improved how we experience many major public spaces in London.

Jules Pipe CBE, Deputy Mayor of London for Planning, Regeneration and the Fire Service

We know of no other grouping of professionals who serve the preservation and promotion of the city as a civilising force in our society in the way that Publica does.

Shelley McNamara, Co-founder, Grafton Architects

Publica has changed our city. They have lit a fire in so many people, from planners to community members to teen girls, to feel like they can impact the streets and parks and public spaces around them. The work they have done will leave imprints for generations to come.

Gretchen Hunt, Director, Louisville Metro Office for Women

Project Highlights

View all projects
Photograph of Hanover Square from above, showing grassy space and trees with some tall buildings in the background.
Hanover Square
An illustrated view of Oxford Street with pedestrians on the street.
A Future for the Oxford Street District
Safety in Public Space report cover
Safety in Public Space: Women, Girls and Gender Diverse People

Insights

Our latest news and updates

Mayor of London unveils new strategy to improve women’s safety

September 2026

Publica's work experience programme 2026

September 2026

A woman in a white t-shirt and jeans speaks into a handheld microphone at an indoor event. Behind her, a colorful purple backdrop reads 'Care Pavilion', with abstract shapes in pink, blue, and orange. A second woman stands at a table in the background, and audience members are visible in the foreground.

Publica CIC at the CHANGE Cities Summit and Women Deliver Conference, Melbourne

May 2026

Meet the Publica Team

Our multidisciplinary team of urban designers, researchers, strategic planners, graphic designers, architects and academics are experts in urban design, research, masterplanning, and strategy. Our breadth of our specialisms inform all our projects, helping us to connect social, spatial, and economic thinking to produce rigorous, ambitious, implementable work.

Our Team
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