Leading hospitality design firm HBA has announced the appointment of Philip Gillard as the principal and managing director of HBA MENA. Based out of HBA’s Dubai studio, Gillard will lead Middle East operations and will help develop the group’s expansion in the region.

As a RIBA Chartered Architect With 25 years of industry experience, Gillard has successfully produced and managed a diverse portfolio spanning architecture, interior design, and master planning; with projects ranging from high-profile hospitality and residential to retail and commercial design across the region.

Gillard comments: “HBA has a long-held reputation for being leaders in luxury and inspired hospitality design with an unrivalled 360-degree service that harnesses the specialities of a global team. I am excited to champion and nurture this dynamic and talented team as we continue to expand our services across the MENA markets.”

With significant experience working in the Middle East, Gillard’s market knowledge and sensibilities will support and champion HBA MENA’s continued strategic growth. His appointment comes after the launch of a new studio in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in October 2020, which opened as a response to rising demand for HBA’s services in the region.