Social Value
Our culture and commitment
At Wilson Mason, we have an important role to play in the built environment, people, communities and society. We have an engaged approach to social value, striving to create architecture that enriches the world in which we live, work and do business. Whether through design, community engagement, employment or sustainable initiatives, our focus is to deliver the best possible social and environmental outcomes.
A SMART approach
Themes
Work, economy, community, planet
Outcomes
Targeted changes or benefits that respond to each theme
Measures
Quantifiable actions that demonstrate progress
This approach leads to effective, traceable and impactful actions.
Sustainability and the environment
Sustainability underpins our design philosophy. We believe good architecture must minimise environmental impact while maximising social value. We are also a member of the Green Register, an independent, self-funded and not-for-profit organisation whose principal goal is to promote sustainable building practices across all disciplines of the construction industry.
Within our offices, we actively reduce emissions through using public transport, car-sharing, remote meetings, digital documentation, recycling and use of green suppliers. On projects, we lead integrated design strategies that deliver cost-effective, sustainable solutions for clients while achieving recognised environmental standards.
Supporting local communities and economies
We believe in designing with communities, not just for them. Across all our projects we ensure people and communities are part of the conversation from the outset, giving them the opportunity to learn more, ask questions, contribute and feel ownership of the project.
Beyond our work, our people take part in charity events and local in initiatives, from coastal litter picking to running the Great North Run for Prostate Cancer. We also dedicate one group charity activity each year, reinforcing our culture of collective responsibility.
Through our projects and work, we also aim, where possible, to specify materials that can be sourced locally, while encouraging the use of local subcontractors to support apprenticeships and skills. By working with traditional building techniques, such as stone walling, roofing and bricklaying, we not only sustain local economies but help preserve craft skills.
Investing in people and skills
Every employee is given two social value days per year, dedicated to activities that support employment and economic development, community engagement, environmental sustainability, social inclusion and education. These days are an investment in the collective wellbeing of our communities.
We also proactively seek opportunities to share knowledge with clients, students and industry partners. We deliver guests lectures, workshops and CPD sessions covering construction, Health and Safety, BIM and sustainable innovation. We also mentor young people through career advice, CV workshops and interview prep, helping inspire the next generation of architects and construction professionals. Our commitment also extends to apprenticeships and placements, offering pathways into the profession. Recent apprenticeships and graduates have completed qualifications while gaining valuable hands-on experience within the practice.
From community engagement and carbon reduction to training and charity initiatives, our actions reflect a belief that architecture can and should change the world for the better.