Recognised as one of the region’s leading designers and architects, Bruno Guélaff’s expertise extends across architecture, interior design, master planning, and furniture design, leaving a significant impact on each field. Born in New York City to French parents, Bruno’s educational journey began at the Lycée Français de New York and evolved into a deep design exploration. Initially unsure of his path, his studies in sociology did not reveal his passion until later at the New York School of Interior Design (NYSID). It was there that his design identity took shape, solidified by his receipt of the prestigious B.F.A. Travel Prize, allowing him to travel the world, visiting over 22 cities across 15 countries. This globe-trotting experience became a rich source of inspiration, influencing the multicultural layers in his work today.

In 2008, Guélaff returned to Dubai, where he established his boutique firm, studio bruno guelaff, under the umbrella of BG Group.

Over the last 15 years, his vision has propelled the company to become one of the most sought-after design firms in the region. Known for pushing the boundaries of design and architecture, Bruno’s work is defined by its fluidity—ensuring that all design elements, from landscape to interiors, are woven seamlessly into a cohesive narrative. As Bruno puts it: “Designing is about more than just the physical space; it’s about crafting an emotional experience for those who live within it.”

In 2024, Bruno’s dedication to design was recognised when he was awarded Architect of DESIGN DIRECTOR + PARTNER/STUDIO BRUNO GUELAFF + BG GROUP BRUNO GUÉLAFF 05 BRUNO GUÉLAFF, DESIGN DIRECTOR + PARTNER STUDIO BRUNO GUELAFF + BG GROUP BROUGHT TO YOU BY DESIGN MIDDLE EAST | OCTOBER 2024 DESIGN MIDDLE EAST | OCTOBER 2024 design-middleeast.com 27 the Year at the Architecture Leaders Awards. Reflecting on this achievement, Bruno stated: “I am deeply honored and humbled by this recognition. It serves as validation for the dedication my team and I put into every project. Designing spaces where our clients live is a privilege, knowing that our work impacts their daily lives in meaningful ways. This motivates me to push the boundaries of modern design even further.”

BG LUX VILLA, LUXURY LIVING IN THE HEART OF PEARL JUMEIRAH

His holistic approach to design—one that integrates not just the physical, but the emotional and cultural dimensions of living— has set him apart in the industry. Bruno emphasizes the importance of understanding his clients’ backgrounds, how they interact with their environments, and translating that understanding into personalized architectural solutions. “It is my privilege to design a true home for each of our patrons, one that reflects their cultural identities, their relationships, and their values,” he says.

This philosophy has not only influenced his designs but has also reshaped the way his company approaches construction. After identifying inefficiencies in the traditional project process, Bruno realized that design should not stop at conceptualization but extend into execution. This led to the formation of BG Villas, a partnership between Bruno and construction expert Khalid Kaluti. Together, they have created a design + build company that merges cutting-edge design with high-quality construction for an all-inclusive, transparent client experience.

The success of BG is visible across Dubai, where luxury residential projects are in full swing from Dubai Hills to Pearl Jumeirah. The firm is now looking forward to expanding its scope with branded boutique developments, including an ambitious 96-story tower facing the iconic Burj Khalifa, which is currently in the design phase

One of our current projects is the BG LUX Villa, a true gem located in the heart of Pearl Jumeirah, Dubai.

This four-level villa is a stunning blend of minimalism and glamour, offering 24,000sqft. of usable space. The villa features a range of luxurious amenities, including a cold plunge pool, a spa, a boutique-style gym, and a multi-level cinema. Its fully functional roof terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai, creating the perfect setting for relaxation. The villa’s meticulously curated finishes will captivate the future homeowner, ensuring a living experience that embodies modernism, comfort, and elegance. Every detail, from the architecture to the interior design, reflects a commitment to creating a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, making the BG LUX Villa a standout masterpiece in Dubai’s luxury real estate market.

BG LUX VILLA, LINEAR VIEWS FROM ABOVE

As Bruno and his partners at BG Group continue to redefine the standards of design + build, they are setting new benchmarks for innovation and excellence. With a visionary at its helm, the firm’s future projects promise not only architectural brilliance but a genuine connection to the people who will inhabit them.

Bruno’s journey from a young man searching for his passion to one of the region’s leading designers and architects is one of vision, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in the power of design to shape how we live. His work continues to inspire, pushing the boundaries of what is possible, one project at a time.