MUSE 40: "Transformation doesn’t happen by accident. It’s what we do."

To transform a place takes time, vision, ambition, skill, and collaboration. It doesn’t happen by accident and, often, only becomes clear at the end of a complex process.

At Muse, we deliver transformational change. We recognise the power of regeneration to positively impact communities and economies. We are in it for the long-term.

In Canning Town in London, and as part of ECF (a partnership between Muse, Homes England, and Legal & General), we delivered a new neighbourhood centred on the historic Rathbone Market. We delivered a bustling purpose-built new market and thriving events space as part of the wider regeneration of the area.

Working with our local partners, we delivered a new community of 650 homes, along with a vibrant new library, community centre and two public parks. Whilst we have curated a fantastic place, our work also kick-started the wider regeneration of Canning Town, demonstrating the power we have, to drive long-term transformation, even outside of our direct control.

At the heart of our approach is partnership working. We work together with the public and private sectors, housing associations, landowners, and communities to craft and deliver new inclusive places.

Working with our partners, we have the experience to shape a vision which prioritises what makes a great place for people. This might be public spaces, community infrastructure, active commercial and leisure uses, or quality new homes.

To truly transform a place, the vision needs to be bold. It can’t just be more of the same. It must recognise today’s challenges, but also the future opportunities.

In Salford, we delivered Eden – a Net Zero in operation workspace – which hosts Europe’s largest living wall. With 350,000 plants, the running costs of the office will be 60% lower than a grade A building, constructed in line with current regulations. It is a home for sustainable, ambitious, and bold businesses.

The recently completed Greenhaus, also in Salford, is the largest Passivhaus-certified development in the North West. The 96 affordable homes, delivered in partnership with social housing provider Salix Homes, will use 70-90% less energy than a traditional home.

It’s bold thinking, taking a new approach to the biggest challenges.

Of course, transformation doesn’t always mean ‘new’ – it can also mean creating places which are anchored around historic and valued spaces.

At Wapping Wharf, in Bristol, we worked in partnership with landowner Umberslade to create a new destination in the historical and cultural heart of the city.

The masterplan sensitively restored the Grade II listed City Gaol Gate, integrating it into a new mixed-use place with offices, shops, homes, and leisure space. The result is a carefully curated place with independent restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Transformation is not only about creating new things, but also about working with the established grain of the community and environment to unlock real value and social impact.

It’s about enhancing what works, finding solutions to what doesn’t, and creating opportunity for the future.

Transformation starts with a vision, but it is our teams – based across the UK in the North West, Yorkshire & the North East, Midlands, and the South – which bring the commercial and technical pedigree to deliver, working closely with local partners.

Alongside our partners we have transformed places across the country. We have achieved a great deal, but there is much still to do.