Brian Johnson has had an almost constant presence in the Gulf region since 1975, and in 1991, he established the Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ) headquarters in Dubai.

Highly respected in the industry and throughout the region as a talented architect, Johnson believes: “Architecture has always been a collaborative design process and the fact that the various other disciplines involved in the design of a building are becoming even more specialist means that architects have to work hard to appreciate and understand the opportunities and limitations that these various inter-dependent specialist design elements add to what needs to be a holistic design approach. Within GAJ we aim to provide bespoke one-off design solutions that respond to and build on the client’s hopes and aspirations to provide a lasting, functional, and attractive environment.

ohnson’s impact on modern Middle Eastern archi- tecture is undeniable, and his work includes some of the region’s most recognisable and prized structures. Dubai Creek Golf Club, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, and the Royal Mirage Hotel Arabian Court Residence & Spa are among them.

Johnson and GAJ have become preferred partners for many distinguished projects throughout the region due to his distinct style and unwavering commitment to design excellence. Under his leadership, the firm is working on several projects, including a new resort development as part of Ashar Development in Saudi Arabia, a new residential district in KSA, and a new hospitality project in Al-Ula County, KSA.

The team recently finished the ISG School in Al Khobar, the Warner Bros Hotel in Abu Dhabi, and the DoubleTree by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Riyadh, and they are currently working on two new schools as well as a hospitality and residential projects in Dubai.