The Selfridges Neighbourhood Plan → Publica

An illustrated view from the upper storey at Selfridges with people having an afternoon tea as they look out the window at the street scene.

Since opening in 1909, Selfridges has become a global retail and architectural landmark on Oxford Street. Its presence is ubiquitous – from its iconic yellow bags to its impressive façades, Selfridges is an anchor to the West End’s retail, entertainment, residential, and business life.

As the flagship store embarked on a major development to reimagine its approaches and entrances, Publica built a future vision that considers Selfridges’ role within its immediate neighbourhood, the wider West End and the city.

Ariel illustration of Selfridges including neighbouring parks.

A vision for Selfridges and its place in the neighbourhood

Illustrated view of the corner of Selfridges showing a cinema and other shop fronts and people walking and cycling

Illustrated view of street corner with shop fronts, one car driving down the narrow road and many pedestrians walking, sitting and standing around.

Illustrated view of a street with shops and bars and many pedestrians

Illustrated view of a street corner opposite the entrance to Selfridges with many pedestrians, a car, open bars restaurants and shops.

Through a study of local streets, spatial characteristics and patterns of use, Publica produced Think Piece: A Vision for Selfridges and its Place in the Neighbourhood. This work examines how the organisation could better engage with its surroundings – commissioning new projects outside the main store and strengthening connections with stakeholders to help curate the broader district.

Building on these insights, Publica developed The Selfridges Neighbourhood Plan, establishing a pragmatic, ambitious and flexible framework for public realm projects that respond to the evolution of the Selfridges block and the changing complexities of the West End. The plan identifies opportunities to elevate the visitor experience, leverage the benefit of Selfridges’ investment and improve the local urban environment.

To support this work, Publica produced Selfridges Neighbourhood Plan: Ideas for Streets and Spaces, an illustrative guide indicating how the vision for the Selfridges neighbourhood could be realised.