The scale and ambition of the Middle East projects market demands more innovation and creativity from the architectural design industry. For global architectural firms in the region that are already busier than ever, these projects have pushed the boundaries of what is possible. 

One global architecture and design firm working in the region is US-based Gensler. The firm is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the built environment in the Middle East, focusing on residential, lifestyle and hospitality design.

MEED spoke exclusively to Gensler's lifestyle design director for the Middle East, Thomas Williams, who oversees the creative vision and direction of regional projects.

“Our approach is not just about creating visually striking buildings; it’s about ensuring that these structures are functional, sustainable and reflective of the unique cultural and environmental contexts of the Middle East,” Williams says.

“The firm is dedicated to exceeding client expectations by fostering innovation, ensuring design excellence and integrating sustainability into every project,” he adds.

Emerging trends in Middle Eastern design

The Middle East, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, is a hotbed of cultural diversity and forward-thinking design trends. “Two of the most prominent trends currently shaping the region are technological innovation and sustainability. Sustainability has transitioned from being a buzzword to a core principle that governments and developers are committed to upholding,” Williams says.

Gensler's recent project, the 1364 Lifestyle Centre in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, embodies this shift. The mixed-use centre, designed to serve the city's growing population of young professionals and families, challenges traditional development approaches by incorporating energy-efficient design elements. Building orientation, natural cooling methods and the integration of green spaces are some of the ways in which the project has met sustainability goals while enhancing the user experience.

Overcoming design challenges

Designing for sustainability in the Middle East presents unique challenges, particularly given the region's harsh climate. The sleek, modern aesthetics favoured in contemporary design, such as large glass facades, often conflict with the goal of energy efficiency. Gensler’s approach focuses on optimising energy use to reduce the carbon footprint of its projects.

An example of the balance between sustainability and aesthetics is the Burj Alshaya Four Seasons in Kuwait City. The project incorporates traditional Arabic design elements like the mashrabiya latticework, which provides shade and privacy while maintaining views. This approach allows the building to respond to the climate effectively while delivering a luxurious guest experience.

Another challenge in the region is the fast-paced nature of development. Projects in the Middle East often move much more quickly than those in other parts of the world, putting pressure on both designers and developers.

Gensler's global resources and expertise mean it is "well-equipped to meet these demands, ensuring that projects are delivered on time without compromising on quality”, Williams says.

The rise of wellness in design

Wellness has become a central focus in lifestyle design, particularly in the Middle East. While initially a trend in the hospitality sector, the concept of wellness has now also permeated residential design. The market is increasingly demanding holistic wellness features, from energy-efficient buildings to biophilic design elements that promote a connection to nature.

Gensler’s Alaya Grand Villas at Tilal Al-Ghaf in Dubai is an example of this trend. The project, which has achieved Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (Breeam) 'Very Good' status, signifies the shift towards wellness as not just a trend but a fundamental aspect of modern design in the region.

The future of lifestyle design

Luxury continues to be a primary driver in the Middle East’s lifestyle sector. The region, and particularly Dubai, is renowned for its high-end developments, and this focus on luxury is expected to continue.

Williams says: “The Middle East offers a unique environment for designers to experiment with new ideas and push the boundaries of what is possible in lifestyle design.”

As the region continues to develop, with strong support from its leadership, Gensler is poised to take advantage of new opportunities. The firm sees the Middle East as a testing ground for innovative ideas that could eventually influence global design trends.

Gensler’s experience in the Middle East mirrors the rapid development seen in other parts of the world, says Williams.

The scale of development in the Middle East, particularly with Saudi Arabia’s gigaprojects, is unparalleled. The region’s focus on luxury and rapid growth offers unique opportunities not found elsewhere.

Key GCC projects

Gensler is involved in several high-profile projects in the GCC. These include the Nikki Beach-branded hotel in Ras Al-Khaimah and Lamborghini-branded residences in Jeddah with Dar Global. The firm is also working on DG1 in Business Bay, as well as renovations at Nakheel Mall and Nad Al-Sheba Mall in Dubai.

As Gensler continues to expand its presence in the Middle East, the firm expects to continue to deliver innovative, sustainable and impactful designs that define the future of lifestyle and hospitality in the region.