A masterplan rooted in community

Project: Lodge Lane, Liverpool

At Architecture by Design, we believe meaningful architecture begins with deep understanding. On Lodge Lane in Liverpool, that meant embedding ourselves in the social and spatial fabric of the community—past, present, and future.

The project set out to sensitively redevelop an entire urban block, blending new homes, public spaces, and civic assets into the character of a diverse and dynamic neighbourhood. It was more than a masterplan; it was a study in placemaking.

Designing with Context, not in Spite of It 

Working closely with local stakeholders, we undertook a detailed contextual analysis to shape our design response. From heritage considerations to street patterns and housing typologies, every decision was made to harmonise with the area’s existing rhythm—not overwrite it.

One key decision point was the future of a much-loved local library. Two proposals were developed:

• Option 1: Retain the existing library and build around it.

•  Option 2: Demolish and re-incorporate it into a new, multi-purpose building.

By presenting real, visual options, we empowered community and client voices to guide the direction of the scheme—a testament to our collaborative ethos.

From Streets to Spaces that Connect 

At the heart of the masterplan was a deceptively simple idea: connection. Our design introduced a small but powerful Pocket Park, stitching together two disconnected streets and transforming a forgotten space into a shared amenity. This green link didn't just connect routes—it connected people.

New housing was crafted to respect the rhythm and scale of the area, with contemporary designs that echoed the character of nearby three-storey semis. We paid close attention to detail: massing, materials, and the cadence of frontages all contributed to a cohesive streetscape.

Placemaking with Purpose 

Beyond the built form, our approach considered long-term social impact. Mixed tenure homes were integrated without visual or spatial segregation, fostering inclusion and cohesion across ownership types. The public realm was designed for safety, accessibility, and sociability—with shared spaces to bring residents together.

Through early engagement with planning authorities and a deep understanding of policy frameworks, we navigated local and national requirements with ease, ensuring both compliance and community benefit.

A Blueprint for Better Living 

The Lodge Lane masterplan is more than a set of drawings—it's a commitment to creating places that are as emotionally resonant as they are technically resolved. It reflects the Architecture by Design philosophy: bold, contextual, collaborative.

It’s not about making a statement.

It’s about making a difference—one thoughtful, transformative space at a time.

Impact Summary: A masterplan rooted in community that blends bold thinking with contextual sensitivity to reconnect and revitalise.