P. Martin Dufresne, Co-founder and Design Principal at U+A, has had a very busy year. Not only has the company experienced rapid regional expansion, with an impressive list of new high-end projects on the horizon, but it has also welcomed new growth for its global reach with a recently established partnership with international giant Egis.

Dufresne was instrumental in bringing the firm’s recognition as a world-class multi-disciplinary practise with an incredible portfolio of projects during his 17 years at the helm of U+A’s distinctive design approach. Red Sea Global KSA, Emaar, North 25, Aldar, and, most recently, Expo entrusted their high-end luxury projects to U+A under Dufresne’s expert eye for creating distinctive residential and hospitality brands.

With its clean lines and refined elegance, Creek Edge by U+A embodies the philosophy of sophistication through simplicity. Residents can relax in their sleek, minimal apartment with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the shimmering Creek.

His global reach comes from his lifelong interest with cultural diversity and his deep passion for travel. He left Canada in 1996, to live in Hong Kong where as design Architect with HOK on a multitude of high-end projects in Asia Pacific, including China, the Philippines and Taiwan. Following a short work assignment in Japan, Martin moved to Singapore under famed Australian Architect Kerry Hill, during which time he enriched his passion for high-end luxury in both residential and hospitality.

Moving to Dubai in 2005, he established U+A together with his business partner Pedram Rad in 2007. Since then the company has grown to become one of the most sought after firms in the region. Both Martin and Pedram’s vision and ambitious plan for a world class practice proved well timed for the region’s thirst for luxury and quality.

The company’s growth now accounts for over 200 employees exercising a multitude of services, such as architecture, interior design, masterplanning, project management, and more recently annexing a new landscape division under Dufresne’s strong insistence of holistic design.

In the last year, Dufresne has added Academia to his list of responsibilities. The Canadian University of Dubai sought his professional expertise inviting him to become a member of the School of Architecture and Interior Design Advisory Board. Seeking his other board-members’ insight in the field allows the School a fair advantage in improving their curriculum.

Dufresne continues to champion good design. He also believes in nurturing the people that bring success to the firm. He is passionate in developing talent, which has been a founding principle from the firm’s inception. His 30 years of experience around the globe has given him a unique approach to his craft, with an incredible adaptability and sensibility. Martin sees an exciting future for the company. The last year’s rapid growth and continued success is not only a testament of his and his partner’s efforts to deliver quality but from the distinct office culture they instilled and continue to support.