Hamilton Bradshaw has partnered with Gillard Atelier, the UAE-based global design studio, founded by acclaimed British architect Philip Gillard. The strategic investment will support the firm’s international expansion across EMEA.
Headquartered in Abu Dhabi Global Market, Gillard Atelier specialises in innovative and sustainable architecture, delivering hospitality, branded residential and commercial mixed-use projects across UAE, Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East. The studio focuses on design excellence rooted in a strong understanding of global trends, experience and best practice.
The partnership reflects Hamilton Bradshaw’s strategy of supporting founder-led, professional services businesses, positioned to serve the Gulf’s next phase of growth. As the region continues to rapidly accelerate development of branded residences, hospitality-driven developments, and large-scale mixed-use masterplans, demand is rising for design partners capable of delivering distinctive and experiential architecture.
Gillard, a RIBA-chartered architect with more than three decades of international experience across EMEA, has led projects for royalty and government entities across the GCC. His portfolio includes developments exceeding US$1 billion in construction value, alongside multi-million-dollar design commissions.
Philip Gillard said: “The GCC is one of the most ambitious development markets in the world. Our goal is to build a design-led practice that combines creativity, sustainability and commercial understanding. Partnering with James Caan and the Hamilton Bradshaw team strengthens our ability to continue attracting the very best talent as we scale across the region.”
James Caan CBE, Chairman of Hamilton Bradshaw, commented: “The Gulf remains one of the most capital-backed and progressive development markets globally. Founder-led professional services firms with deep expertise and disciplined leadership are exceptionally well positioned for growth. Gillard Atelier combines international design credibility with a clear expansion strategy, and we are delighted to partner with them.”
With Hamilton Bradshaw’s investment and strategic support, Gillard Atelier plans to selectively expand across the GCC, strengthen its UAE based team to grow in additional locations and service sectors. The long-term ambition is to establish Gillard Atelier as a leading independent design practice in the Gulf, recognised for distinctive architecture and innovative delivery.
Philip Gillard: philip@gillardatelier.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-gillard-a23a2b13/
