Business Details
36 Years
experience
Heritage Strategy & Design Experts in York
We are a strategic design consultancy specialising in creating unforgettable experiences for museums, cultural destinations, and heritage sites. Since the 1990s, we have built a reputation for excellence through our innovative approach to heritage strategy and design. Our team combines creativity, technical expertise, and strategic thinking to deliver projects that engage and delight visitors. With over 1,300 successful projects completed on time, on budget, and on spec, we have secured more than 120 million in funding for our clients. Our collaborative approach ensures we understand our clients' visions, transforming nebulous ideas into tangible and engaging designs.We pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to challenges, as demonstrated by our work with institutions like the Royal Armouries and National Army Museum. Our senior team brings 110+ years of combined heritage experience, ensuring every project benefits from deep industry knowledge. We are committed to sustainability through initiatives like our Greener Design Initiative, which balances environmental, economic, and social factors. Our work has been recognised with prestigious awards and nominations, reflecting our dedication to excellence. We exist to make our clients exceptional by creating moments of magic that visitors will treasure forever.
Services
Strategy
Design
Delivery
Museum Design
Heritage Branding
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We have 110+ years of combined heritage experience across 1,300+ projects
- Our team secured 120 million+ in funding for client projects
- We deliver on time, on budget, and on specification consistently
- Our senior team combines creative, technical, and strategic expertise
- We pioneered the Greener Design Initiative for sustainable heritage projects
What people say
Patient, professional
Flexible and adaptive
Understood our vision
Delivered beyond expectations
Creative and innovative
Services
Heritage Strategy
We develop comprehensive strategies that define your visitor journey and secure essential funding. Our approach combines business insight with creative vision to create sustainable attractions. With expertise in feasibility studies and options appraisals, we help clients make informed decisions that balance commercial viability with heritage preservation.
Museum Design
Our museum design creates multi-layered sensory environments that bring collections to life. We combine physical exhibits with digital technologies to create immersive storytelling experiences. From interpretive planning to graphic design, we craft spaces that foster emotional connections between visitors and cultural narratives.
Project Delivery
We ensure flawless execution of heritage projects through rigorous cost, schedule, and quality control. Our project management covers design & build, picture research, and script writing. With extensive museum sector experience, we coordinate suppliers to deliver projects on time, on budget, and to specification.
Heritage Branding
We develop distinctive brand identities that strengthen emotional connections with audiences. Our branding solutions create cohesive visual narratives across all touchpoints. From logo design to environmental graphics, we help cultural institutions communicate their unique stories and values effectively.
Interpretive Planning
We create visitor-centred experiences that make heritage accessible and engaging. Our interpretive planning focuses on storytelling through objects and testimony. We design interactive elements that transform static collections into dynamic, educational experiences that resonate with diverse audiences.
People
Jamie
Creative Director
With 19 years at PLB, Jamie leads our creative team as a seasoned strategic heritage specialist. He brings complex visions to life through innovative design solutions that balance creativity with practical implementation.
Jim
Design Manager
Jim combines three-dimensional design, structural aesthetics, and digital media expertise to lead our design team. His multidisciplinary approach brings spaces and collections to life through innovative visual storytelling techniques.
Russell
Project Manager
As key client liaison, Russell ensures smooth project delivery with his organisational expertise. His patient, flexible approach manages complex programmes while maintaining strong client relationships throughout the project lifecycle.
Chris
Principal Designer
Chris uses imaginative design to unlock client stories and create meaningful visitor connections. His creative vision transforms heritage sites into engaging spaces that balance historical authenticity with modern accessibility requirements.
Susanne
Senior Graphic Designer
With over 20 years' experience, Susanne creates visual identities that help clients stand out. Her exceptional design skills craft compelling graphics that enhance visitor experiences while maintaining brand consistency across all touchpoints.
Questions
What services does PLB offer?
We provide strategic planning, interpretive design, and project delivery services for museums and heritage sites.
How long has PLB been in business?
We've specialised in heritage design since 1990, celebrating 35 years of excellence in 2025.
Can you help secure funding for heritage projects?
Yes, we've secured over £100 million in National Lottery Heritage Fund grants for clients.
What makes PLB different from other consultancies?
Our unique combination of heritage expertise, creative innovation, and proven delivery track record sets us apart.
Do you work outside the UK?
While based in York, we deliver projects for cultural destinations across the UK and internationally.
How do you approach sustainable design?
Our Greener Design Initiative integrates environmental considerations into every aspect of heritage project planning.
