om-what?

(/ˈämˌbədz)

hi! we’re ombuds.

‘Ombuds’ comes from the Swedish ombudsman, meaning “representative of the people.” That’s who we strive to be.

We’re a team of urban practitioners on a mission to make the world more connected, just, and a little more fun. We believe that how we imagine, develop, and care for our communities has a profound impact on the world around us.

planning

+

research

+

engagement

+

planning + research + engagement +

Ombuds ensures local voices are heard early and clearly. As urban planners, researchers, and advocates, we help shape your efforts to reflect shared values, so that your community is your coalition.

We thrive in collaborative spaces — whether building on an existing idea or crafting something new. And if you’re reading this thinking, I’d love to work with them — well, ditto.

Our value is a fresh perspective to pull it all together, making unexpected connections to reimagine what exists in ways that can meet your community’s goals.

You already have what you need to be successful. We’re just here to kickstart your glow-up.

We partner with organizations, institutions, and community groups to co-design projects that respond to unique urban issues.

Whether you need a few focused hours of support, an out-of-house team, or a partner through a full project, we’re built to flex.

who we work with

  • We work alongside cities, districs, regional agencies, and departments to co-create plans and engagement processes that reflect the voices of the people they serve.

    W love to help public entities pilot new approaches to neighborhood planning and community services.

  • We collaborate with business improvement districts, council districts, and other place-based initiatives to help strengthen local economies, public spaces, and civic relationships.

    Our work often bridges city agencies, small businesses, and residents to align on shared goals and creative strategies for their corridors and neighborhoods.

  • We collaborate directly with residents, community groups, and civic associations to reimagine their public spaces and community processes.

    Our work empowers neighborhoods to take ownership of change through creative, inclusive engagement.

  • We partner with school districts, libraries, and other public-serving institutions to design responsive, people-centered systems.

    Our work helps institutions build trust, foster belonging, and better serve the communities at their heart.

  • We partner with nonprofits advancing social, cultural, and environmental impact. Whether through facilitation, storytelling, or program design, we help strengthen missions and mobilize community energy.

  • We work with mission-aligned developers to ensure new projects strengthen the fabric of their surrounding communities. We bridge residents, local leaders, and design teams—helping shape developments that are context-sensitive, inclusive, and welcomed as part of a shared neighborhood vision.

  • We love teaming up with architects, designers, and planners who share our human-centered values. Together, we take on complex projects that require both technical expertise and deep community insight.