Tree-lined promenades, native greens, and café-lined streets shape a new kind of community in McKinney
Long Branch spans 155 acres in McKinney, Texas. It introduces a walkable district where connection, nature, and ease of movement shape daily life. The master plan integrates residential, retail, office, and civic uses within a framework of pedestrian-friendly streets and layered public spaces. A central green anchors the site and promotes both community gathering and personal retreat. The district offers a variety of experiences rooted in the North Texas landscape.
The town green acts as a central hub, surrounded by food and beverage destinations. Designers used native landscaping, framed views, and shaded seating to support both daily routines and larger events. Lawn areas, gardens, and plazas provide flexible space for gathering and recreation. In addition, a network of breezeways, outdoor rooms, and tree-lined promenades extends the public realm. These elements connect cafés, shops, and office entries, which enrich the street-level experience.
Contemporary gabled buildings and pedestrian-scaled forms shape Long Branch’s architectural identity. Residential corridors feature stepped entries, lush planting, and varied materials. As a result, they create a strong sense of rhythm and comfort. Street layouts prioritize safety and mobility. For example, they include calm vehicular routes, protected bike lanes, and on-street parking. Throughout the site, pocket parks and small greens offer space for play, gathering, and quiet moments.
The plan divides the site into distinct tracts. Each supports a specific role in the district while maintaining clear visual and physical connections. Planned improvements to the adjacent U.S. 380 corridor will also enhance regional accessibility.
Long Branch offers more than a mix of uses—it fosters a neighborhood where multigenerational life can thrive. With its walkable scale and generous open spaces, the district supports everyday living in a sustainable and connected way. In addition, the balance of activity and retreat makes Long Branch feel both human-centered and adaptable. The design team shaped each element to support a forward-thinking model of neighborhood development. Ultimately, the district values community, access, and the surrounding environment.
