“Everything is only for a day, both that which remembers and that which is remembered”
The Belief
The Spirit of Place
I believe that meaningful space making is born from listening. Before form, style and programme, there is place; its atmosphere, landscape, history, light, climate, and subtler qualities that cannot always be defined. Every project begins with an immersion into the contextual fabric of a location: its topography, geography, its relationship to nature, and the unique spirit or genius loci that gives it a timeless quality. Depending on the intention of a project, it is not always right to impose design onto a place in a brutalist sense, rather to reveal its hidden secrets and allow the narrative to emerge from those conditions with clarity and authenticity.
The Human Dimension
Equally important are the human layers embedded within a project; the memories a place holds, the emotional connections that communities have formed with it, and, of course, the aspirations and vision of the client. We study these narratives alongside the physical context, drawing inspiration from culture, history, and human experience to create spaces that feel both grounded and resonant. Through this process, diverse influences are distilled into a singular architectural vision: one that unites stakeholders and the design team around a coherent project identity, ensuring every decision contributes to a meaningful and enduring whole.
The Journey
Intro
I’m an architect, designer, and musician based in Dubai, exploring the intersection between space, sound, culture, and human connection. For more than two decades, much of it across the Middle East, I’ve worked mainly on architectural projects ranging from intimate private homes to large-scale masterplans for some of Dubai’s leading developers.
Background
Originally trained in the UK and deeply influenced by London’s design culture, my experience blends creativity with precision, treating architecture not only as a technical practice, but as a way of shaping atmosphere and experience. Alongside consulting with established practices in Dubai, I have worked independently on bespoke homes, villa refurbishments, and culturally driven spaces that carry a strong sense of identity and soul.
The Shift
More recently I have been looking towards the city’s public spaces, exploring the integration of art, architecture, landscape design and product design. My dream is to contribute to the enhancement of the pedestrian and public realm which, I believe, Dubai needs focused attention and nuance.
Music has always been part of the way I understand design. I’m drawn to the emotional and invisible layers of a place; rhythm, energy, memory, materiality, and the dialogue between people and their environment.
At the heart of my practice is the belief that design is a living conversation between place, people, and genius loci; the spirit that makes a space truly felt, not just seen.
Recognition
Pilkington Glasshouse Competition, 2002
Cameroon School Competition, 2009
Design Middle East Award, Runner-up, 2018
Clients
Emaar, Nshama, Nakheel, Amaala, Royal Group, Dubai Properties, Lootah Real Estate, Aldar, Enpar, Adnec, Mubadala, Al Sharq
Approach
I don’t begin with images or drawings; I begin with questions. What is being asked for here? What does this community need? Where is the vision being drawn from? What does this place feel like to inhabit? Does this place hold any memories that want to come through? These are the questions that guide every engagement. Below is how I work.
01 - The Vision Intensive
For projects at Concept stage
Before anything is designed, a project needs a soul. This is a dedicated immersion - into the site, the culture, the client’s deepest intentions, and the community context. I study what already exists, what the land is asking for, and what the space wants to become.
Design Vision Document
What you receive is a - a narrative blueprint that defines the emotional and spatial identity of your project. It articulates the design principles, cultural references, materiality direction, and spatial story that will guide every decision made downstream, by every architect, builder, and designer involved.
This is the foundation everything else is built on.
Fixed fee engagement. Typically 2-4 weeks.
02 - Creative Direction Retainer
For projects in Design & Development stages
Once the vision is established, the work of protecting it begins. As your Creative Director, I stay close - reviewing design decisions, providing direction on materials and spatial choices, joining key stakeholder calls, and ensuring the soul of the project isn’t diluted as it moves through the hands of architects, engineers, and contractors.
This is a monthly retainer relationship - available, responsive, and deeply invested in the integrity of what you’re building.
Monthly retainer. Rolling engagement with notice period.
03 - Design Integrity Visit
For projects under Construction
There are moments in a build when presence matters. I travel to the site - whether Dubai, Zanzibar, Portugal, or elsewhere - and spend one to three days walking the space, reviewing what has been built against the original vision, identifying drift, and producing a written report with clear recommendations.
This can be arranged once, at a critical milestone, or periodically throughout construction.
Day rate plus travel. Bookable independently or as part of an ongoing relationship.
I take on a limited number of engagements each year, and I choose projects I genuinely believe in. If you’re building something with intention - and you want a creative partner who brings both rigour and soul to the process - I’d love to hear from you.
Get in touch
From early concept to full schematic design, we work closely with the client and designers to shape a clear, compelling architectural vision. For projects entering Tender or post-contract stages, we also offer steady guidance to the team, helping navigate technical decisions with confidence.
Our approach is deeply client-centric—supporting your ideas, easing concerns, and ensuring that every detail is delivered with craftsmanship and integrity. The result is work to be all proud of.