Jordan Baldock

I believe that urban design is fundamentally a social endeavour that aims to shape the built environment in a way that promotes community well-being and enhances the quality of life for its residents. It recognises that cities are not merely collections of buildings and infrastructure, but complex systems where people interact, share resources, and foster social connections. By prioritising social goals and equitable access to amenities, I feel that urban design can have profound benefits that align with the principles of socialism.

Whilst at university my post-graduate research focused on the design and creation of inclusive and accessible public spaces. Parks, plazas, and pedestrian-friendly streets are essential for fostering social interactions, encouraging physical activity, and providing gathering places for diverse communities. These spaces serve as a great equaliser, where individuals from different socio-economic backgrounds can come together, breaking down social barriers, and fostering a sense of belonging and shared ownership.

I am passionate about the effective use of graphic communication and the ability to quickly communicate spatial relationships, proportions, and design intent. Wherever possible I seize the opportunity to pick up a pen and communicate a vision, attempting to transform abstract thoughts into tangible visual representations. I also believe that storytelling plays a vital role in urban design, and helps weave narratives that connect people with their surroundings.

Following graduation from the University of Manchester I have gained experience in a number of design-led practices, working on a range of projects across numerous scales and locations. One of my most recent projects delivered an award-winning landscape-led regeneration scheme in Southend-on-Sea, securing 1,760 modern homes focussed around a network of high-quality public open spaces and a remodelled 1970s gyratory road system.