< Previous20 AB Top 10 Architects Supplement, August 2023 JOSHU A KANE Kane says its a real challenge for him to achieve the level of quality he desire in his digital fashion creations Whether we will be wearing digital fashion in the near future remains unknownarabianbusiness.com 21 JOSHU A KANE The amount of time and effort required to make each garment is huge, says Kane Tailors have made signi cant contribu- tions to the fashion industry If you look beyond the metaverse, are there other areas where digital fashion can be utilised? De nitely! There are so many areas where digital fashion can be used. Take, for instance, the lm industry, where digital artists are using 3D body scanners to digitise apparel. It’s the same software that is used for video games, just 20 times more powerful. This is being used in projects such as Disney TV shows, especially in partially animated TV movie shows where CGI blends with real–life actors. They are so accurately depicted that it is hard to tell what is real and what is digital. The budget and the skill of the artist play a big role in how well you can spot the di erence. Are there any challenges when designing for these spaces? It’s a real challenge for me to achieve the level of quality I desire in my digi- tal fashion creations. As an independ- ent brand, the amount of time and e ort required to make each garment is huge. It’s a costly and time-con- suming process, especially consider- ing that I’m not directly selling these digital garments, but rather integrat- ing them into video games. Justifying the investment and the hours spent is a challenge in itself. Another challenge I face is the experience gap between creating real- life garments for over 21 years and digital garments for only two and a half years. I need to catch up and ensure that my digital creations match the same level of excellence as my real ones. I want players of the video game to perceive the digital garments as real and of the highest quality. So, the ongoing challenge is to maintain consistency and make everything look equally impressive. Tailor-made for the metaverse Whether we will be wearing digital fashion in the near future remains unknown. However, historically, tailors, one of the oldest traditions in the world, have made significant contributions to the fashion indus- try. And, as the world steps into a new era of fashion, Joshua Kane is no different. I need to catch up and ensure that my digital creations match the same level of excellence as my real ones 22 August 2023 TOP 10 ARCHITECTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST Building a modern landscape The architecture industry in the Middle East has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the past few decades. This dynamic region, with its rich history and diverse cultures, is now home to some of the world's most iconic and awe-inspiring architectural wonders. In this special edition of Arabian Business, we present some of the lead- ing gures who are making a di erence in the design and architecture scene in the region and beyond. We also explore the growth and evolution of the architecture industry in the Middle East, the factors driving its development, and the unique chal- lenges and opportunities it faces. Architectural Renaissance in the Middle East The Middle East has a long history of architectural excellence, evident in ancient structures like the Pyramids of Egypt, the Petra archaeological site in Jordan, and the Islamic architectural masterpieces such as the Taj Mahal in India. In recent years, the region has experienced an architectural renais- sance driven by rapid urbanisation, economic growth, and ambitious development projects. Countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have emerged as global hubs for innovative and ground-breaking architecture. Factors driving development Economic boom: The oil-rich econo- mies of the Middle East have fuelled signi cant economic growth, providing ample financial resources for ambi- tious architectural ventures. These nations have embraced modernization and are keen to showcase their wealth and progress through impressive infra- structure and iconic buildings. Urbanisation and population growth: The region's population is increasingly shifting from rural to urban areas, leading to a surge in demand for residential, commercial, and public infrastructure projects. Architects are challenged to design sustainable and efficient spaces to accommodate the growing population. Tourism and iconic landmarks: Several Middle Eastern countries have strategically invested in tourism by creating iconic landmarks and archi- tectural marvels, which act as powerful symbols of their identity and attract visitors from around the world. Architectural marvels of the Middle East Burj Khalifa: Standing tall at 828 metres, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai is the tallest building globally, an engineering feat that has garnered international acclaim and transformed the city's skyline. The Museum of Islamic Art: Designed by I.M. Pei, this architectural gem in Doha showcases a stunning blend of traditional Islamic motifs and modern design principles, becoming a cultural landmark in the region. King Abdullah Financial District: This ambitious project in Riyadh is an urban financial centre with avant- garde architectural designs that re ect the nation's aspiration to become a global nancial hub. Opportunities for the future Green building initiatives: Emphasis- ing sustainable design and green building practices can help address environmental challenges and reduce the ecological footprint of new developments. Integration of technology: Adopting building information modelling (BIM) and other advanced technologies can improve design e ciency, collabora- tion, and project management in the architecture industry. Preserving heritage: While embrac- ing modernity, the region must also preserve its rich architectural heritage by renovating historic structures and incorporating traditional elements in new designs. The oil-rich economies of the Middle East have fuelled signi cant economic growth, providing ample nancial resources for ambitious architectural ventures 22 August 2023 BY EDWARD LIAMZONarabianbusiness.com 23 TOP 10 ARCHITECTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST UK Foster + Partners has been making signi cant strides in the Middle East, where the rm have under- taken an array of remarkable projects and under the leadership of Foster, has achieved notable contract wins and actively engaged in several prominent ventures across the region. In November 2022, Foster + Partners made headlines with the successful bid to design the prestigious 'Palm Flower,' a luxury resi- dential project in Dubai. The exclusive development, nestled on the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah, demonstrates the rm's commitment in creating distinctive spaces underpinned by luxury living. A commitment to sustainability Backed by a commitment to sustainability and contextual design princi- ples, the unveiling of the Coral Bloom Island concept for Red Sea Global (formerly known as The Red Sea Development Company) in 2021 was a nature-inspired design set to be implemented across 11 luxurious resorts. Moreover, the rm’s noteworthy contributions to several developments includes the Jabal Omar development in KSA, the ICD Brook eld Place Tower, the South Sabah Al-Ahmad masterplan, the Jeddah Metro, Kuwait International Airport Terminal 2, the National Bank of Kuwait headquar- ters, the Samba headquarters in KSA, the Zayed National Museum, and the House of Wisdom (HOW) in Sharjah. Additionally, Foster + Partners has been actively involved in crafting a provisional concept design for a Skyports Infrastructure vertiport terminal adjacent to DXB airport, a concept that garnered enthusiastic endorsement from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, demonstrating the rm's ability to envision futuristic solutions that align with the region's vision for the future of transportation. In June 2020, AMAALA, KSA’s giga project, selected Foster + Partners to design an airport inspired by an optical illusion of a desert mirage which re ects their prowess in creating visionary architectural solutions that integrate with the natural surroundings. The rm has also made an impact with the design of Apple BKC, Apple's agship store in India, which achieved LEED Platinum certi cation and re ects their commitment to sustainable design practices. NORMAN FOSTER As an architect, you design for the present, with an awareness of the past, for a future which is essentially unknown $240M The estimated net worth of Lord Norman Foster, one of the most renowned architects in the world Founder and executive chairman FOSTER + PARTNERS24 August 2023 TOP 10 ARCHITECTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST UAE Backed by a track record span- ning over 30 years in the indus- try. Johnson is the driving force behind GAJ, a renowned architecture and design rm based in the UAE. His leadership skills have propelled the firm to play a significant role in the development of the UAE's infrastruc- ture. Their involvement in several notable projects, including the Dubai Creek Golf Clubhouse and several prominent education initiatives in the region, highlights their expertise and commitment to excellence. Moreover, Johnson's visionary approach and deep understanding of the local context have played a pivotal role in positioning GAJ as a leading player in the architectural landscape of the Middle East. Backed by forward-thinking designs Under Johnson's guidance, GAJ has made a mark in key markets encom- passing the UAE, Oman, and KSA with their forward-thinking archi- tectural designs. The team, comprising experts from diverse disci- plines, has achieved success, completing several signi cant projects in recent years. Johnson attributes GAJ's accomplishments to the excep- tional talent and dedication of the individuals within the company. Notably, GAJ's portfolio includes remarkable projects such as The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton, located near the new Warner Bros. Theme Park on Yas Island. Additionally, the rm intricately linked the design and delivery of the DoubleTree by Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Residences to the WB hotel. Nurturing talent within the industry In their continuous e orts to contribute to the architectural industry, GAJ has taken proactive steps by introducing an internship programme which o ers aspiring architects and designers a unique opportunity to hone their skills under the guidance of experienced professionals at GAJ. The rm's diverse team, comprising experts from various disci- plines, has consistently delivered outstanding results on several signif- icant projects in recent years. GAJ's portfolio includes The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton on Yas Island. BRIAN JOHNSON When I rst started working in Dubai in 1975, I was doing a lot of schools and there was a desire for Dubai to show that it was part of the international world and keeping up with international standards 120 The number of staff under the Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ) payroll Principal and managing partner GODWIN AUSTEN JOHNSON (GAJ)arabianbusiness.com 25 TOP 10 ARCHITECTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST UAE Under the guidance of Squires, SSH, the UAE-based architectural rm, has strategically positioned itself to navigate the MENA region's market recovery. The rm has observed a signi cant upswing in activity within the consulting sector across their selected markets. To align more e ec- tively with clients' development objec- tives and enhance resilience, SSH has embarked on a restructuring process. By adopting a more agile and robust deliv- ery model, the rm can swiftly adapt to evolving industry demands, solidifying its reputation as a reliable and innovative player in the architectural arena. Diversifying its portfolio KSA and the UAE are the key drivers behind this growth, and there are promising signs of improvement in Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. SSH has also expanded its business into Egypt, aligning with the company's strategic direction to strengthen the SSH brand and extend operations throughout the MEA region. Having achieved a net revenue backlog that surpasses the average intake of the previous three years by an impressive 60 percent, the firm is in a favourable position for its upcoming three-year business plan which anticipates a 55 percent growth in headcount in 2023, signifying the company's robust perfor- mance and optimistic outlook for the future. Fostering professional excellence SSH operates internally with strict adherence to legal and ethical guide- lines, ensuring integrity and accountability in all its activities. The rm cultivates a challenging and rewarding environment for its employees, placing strong emphasis on fostering professional excellence, prior- itizing health and safety measures, and promoting environmental awareness. These core values re ect the rm's commitment to nurtur- ing a supportive and sustainable workplace that encourages growth and ensures the well-being of its team members. SSH's approach to delivering exceptional value and meeting the dynamic demands of the ever-changing architectural industry has solidi ed its position as a leading player in the MEA region. MATTHEW SQUIRES I am very grateful for the support and trust of our partners and clients, who have played an important role in our success 1961 The year in which SSH was established to deliver architectural and engineering consultancy services throughout the MEA region CEO SSH26 August 2023 TOP 10 ARCHITECTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST UAE With an extensive portfolio spanning over 25 years, Killa’s philosophy revolves around crafting innovative, low-carbon sustainable edifices that challenge architectural paradigms, resulting in iconic projects like the Dubai Opera House, the Almas Tower, and the Bahrain World Trade Centre, a pioneer- ing integration of wind turbines on a large-scale building. He has gained recognition for his distinctive approach to architecture and with the creation of environmentally conscious and cutting-edge projects, places a strong emphasis on sustainability that continuously pushes the boundaries of conventional design. Notable projects Established in 2015 in Dubai, Killa Design, under the guidance of visionary architect Killa, has been actively involved in several notable projects that have garnered critical acclaim in the archi- tectural world. These include the awe-inspiring designs for the Museum of the Future, the Address Beach Resort, W Hotel Namaste, Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club, Marsa Al Arab, Shey- barah Island, Aykon Twin Towers, and the ground-breaking O ce of the Future, the world’s rst occupied 3D-printed building. Presently, Killa Design is immersed in the construction of exciting projects such as the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel in Dubai, the Sheybarah Resort for the Red Sea Development in KSA, as well as the Palm Residence and the Cavalli Residential Towers. Killa’s portfolio epitomises a seamless amalgamation of avant-garde design and a profound consciousness for environ- mental stewardship. By seamlessly integrating sustainable principles into his projects, he establishes an elevated standard for the industry, demonstrating the transformative potential of environmentally conscious structures that elevate the urban landscape. SHAUN KILLA $136M The cost of the Museum of the Future project designed by Killa Design partner KILLA DESIGN The integration of sustainability Killa also serves as a keynote speaker at global conferences where he inspires architects and developers to challenge the status quo and embrace sustainable practices. His focus lies in the significance of sustainable buildings and masterplans, aiming to enhance the urban habi- tat, improve the lives of its inhabitants, and aggressively reduce carbon emissions from the built environment. His in uential presence on the global stage drives positive change in the archi- tectural industry, advocating for a more sustain- able and environmentally conscious future.arabianbusiness.com 27 TOP 10 ARCHITECTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST UAE Established in 2000, NAGA Archi- tects stand as illustrious pioneers in the domains of architecture, planning, and design. Their visionary endeavours have rede ned urban land- scapes and sculpted skylines, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary archi- tectural fabric. In 2022-23, NAGA Archi- tects expanded their prowess by hand- picking a large team of architects and engineers to consolidate their expertise in master planning and infrastructure. Other achievements include the majestic Palm Jebel Ali villas, as well as Aria by OMNIYAT and the ethereal Saadiyat Lagoons Villas which juxtapose design and harmony. In Dubai Maritime City, a towering residential tower graces the skyline, while the Thukher Social Club earned a nalist spot at the prestigious World Architecture Festival. During 2022-2023, NAGA Archi- tects made architectural history with a record-breaking garden home villa sale on Palm Jumeirah, commanding an astounding $18.2 million. Key projects in KSA NAGA Architects have carved a remarkable presence in KSA and in collab- orating with private developers, they have completed planning and design of over 1.5 million m2 of residential developments. In partnership with the Ministry of Housing, they were instrumental in the planning of a 55 million m2 of residential projects in KSA, including Al Fursan and Al Khuzam. They have also made a mark with the majestic Khobar Commercial Plaza, the enchanting Strip Mall, and the prestigious ve-star King Fahd Road Hotel. Sustainability’s importance NAGA Architects, as part of their central CSR endeavours, actively engages in initiatives to foster positive change, including their collaboration with the Kuwaiti government to train architecture students. They have also been supporting hospitals in Egypt by donating medical equipment. Additionally, NAGA Architects aims to partner with an NGO to empower needy families in Egypt with livelihood opportunities. AI in architecture AI’s in uence on architecture is palpable, and NAGA Architects envisions its potential for even greater impact. By inputting distinctive criteria and parameters, AI becomes an inexhaustible source of imaginative design alternatives that transcend traditional approaches and can open doors to a future of ground-breaking advancements. Dr. SHAMS ELDIEN NAGA I think the most signi cant challenge in architecture is a cultural one – nding design solutions that are long lasting and continue to be relevant for many future generations 230+ The number of diverse, high-pro le projects NAGA Architects completed in more than 20 cities Founder and principal NAGA ARCHITECTS28 August 2023 TOP 10 ARCHITECTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST UAE ARIBA Chartered Architect with a master’s degree in architecture, as the co-founder of U+A since 2006, Rad has set goals and visions for the company to become one of the world’s finest design studios. Backed by over 25 years of archi- tectural design experience in hotel & hospitality, residential high- rise, and commercial mixed-use developments, he provides exper- tise in initiating project brie ng and development strategy, space planning, and project strategic management from inception to completion across a diverse array of projects. Backed by a wealth of experience Rad’s extensive experience in real estate development helps enable its developers and clients to estab- lish their objectives in parallel with architecture. Rad has worked on multiple projects in the MENA region including Floating Homes, Emaar Dubai Hills, Maritime City, Dubai Towers, Emirates Towers Expansion, Aldar Yas Plaza, Four Seasons Hotel, Creek Harbour Towers, and more. Having spent overt two decades in Dubai has provided him with an understanding of devel- opers/clients as well as the vast knowledge of the region’s culture which has resulted in several project accolades in the UAE, KSA, and other countries within the MENA region. Recent key successes in the UAE and across the GCC In the year 2022, U+A, under Rad's guidance, achieved remarkable growth across all architectural fronts, exempli- fying their prowess in the industry. Notably, their strategic PEDRAM RAD Co-founder and Managing Director U+A partnership with Egis, a leading global engineering rm with an impressive 1.5 billion Euros ($1.66bn) turnover, emerged as a shining highlight amid a myriad of accomplishments. This strategic alliance bolstered U+A's capabilities, empow- ering them to tackle ambitious and innovative projects with renewed vigour. Throughout the year, U+A left an indelible mark in the architectural landscape of the UAE and KSA, deftly design- ing and delivering an extensive portfolio of projects, encom- passing more than 2 million m2 of awe-inspiring spaces. Among these remarkable developments were iconic ventures arabianbusiness.com 29 TOP 10 ARCHITECTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST such as Arabian Ranches 3, Emaar Creek Edge, Midtown, Six Senses, and more, each a testament to U+A's unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. U+A's architectural milestones As their achievements reached new heights, so did their team, welcoming over 50 talented experts, elevating their total manpower to 198 architects and specialists, showcasing a remarkable 45 percent growth from the previous year. The geographic footprint of U+A expanded with U+A Saudi, where they undertook signi cant projects and experienced considerable growth in both scale and influence, all in harmonious partnership with Egis. As U+A's acumen in urban planning and master plan- ning advanced, shaping sustainable and cohesive commu- nities, the firm's growth extended far beyond physical structures as they expanded their expertise in diverse architectural realms. Their pro ciency in landscape design ourished through exceptional hospitality resort and urban public realm projects. Stepping into the future, their focus on research, devel- opment, and innovation positioned them at the forefront of cutting-edge architectural practices. Additionally, their prowess in CGI and visualisation breathed life into concep- tual visions, captivating clients, and stakeholders alike. This impressive trajectory also manifested in their nancial success, with revenue exceeding $35m, with projections set to surpass $50m this year. The strategic collaboration with Egis proved transform- ative, allowing U+A to operate the Egis Middle East Arch- line, strategically extending their architectural prowess to encompass Egypt and India. As U+A continues to surge forward, their passion for architectural excellence and dedication to creating transformative spaces heralds an exciting future, poised to leave an enduring impact on the architectural and engineering landscape of the Middle East and beyond. Latest projects in KSA U+A had begun to establish their projects in KSA in 2010, designing high-rise residential development for several private developers. The rm is part of several mega projects since 2019 with PIF namely the Four Seasons Hotel, Six Senses Resort, Misk O ces, Trojena Residence, Sindalah Village and Yacht Club, and more. They have witnessed rapid growth in KSA after joining Egis, which resulted in the addi- tion of the inclusion of other clients such as Neom, Al Ula, Roshn and others. U+A have more than 500 architects and engineers with Egis, and the rm are strongly pursuing their expansion in line with the 2030 vision set by HRH Prince Mohammad Bin Salman. The role of sustainability in architecture/construction Sustainability must be a built-in structure within daily life, says Rad. Being a design-centric practice, sustainability always plays a crucial role in all design aspects which improve and respect nature, local materials, the environ- ment, and many more. The most powerful impact is to address global warming and create a habitable living space while respecting nature. U+A’s CSR initiatives and its role in the company’s success Considering the post covid scenario, U+A developed the CSR model for two streams, one is for the people. This CSR model helps U+A’s people to nd the best balance between work and personal life. The rm o ers mobility between their o ces across the globe, as well as o ers free of cost training as well as has created a home-like office environment. Secondly is their sustainable design and net zero approach in which U+A took the initiative to introduce sustainability into the design process, irrespective of their contractual agreement and service o ering, The role of AI in architecture U+A acknowledges AI's growing impact in architectural design, both as a valuable tool and a formidable competitor. Rad emphasises nding the right balance between human ingenuity and AI's capabilities. U+A seeks to harmoniously integrate AI with designers, shaping a brighter architec- tural future. Rad's extensive experience in design and development of projects in the GCC allows him to closely understand client needs $50M U+A's projected revenue in 2023, in line with the company's impressive growth trajectoryNext >