Powerlist Creative 30 2025 : Kristina Bråteng, CEO & Founder, B8 Architecture, Ranks 25th

B8 is expanding into new horizons—literally. Kristina recently traveled with clients to Vanuatu to explore two private islands, where the firm will develop a boutique luxury hospitality retreat and a residential family resort. This marks a new chapter for B8, complementing its landmark villas with destination experiences. Having entered hospitality, the firm is also pursuing collaborations with world-class hotels, a journey that promises to redefine how lifestyle, culture, and luxury design are seamlessly merged.
FROM START TO SUCCESS
Kristina studied architecture in Spain, where her passion for design merged with hands-on experience in luxury residential projects. In 2015, she founded B8 Architecture with the vision of creating bespoke, high-end homes that unite innovation, artistry, and cultural sensitivity. From a small seven-person team in Spain to nearly seventy in Dubai today, B8 delivers landmark villas and hospitality projects worldwide, establishing itself as a global reference in luxury design.
THE ROAD AHEAD
Kristina envisions B8 continuing to evolve as a global leader in holistic luxury design, expanding widely while maintaining intimacy. Every project remains personal, every client connection meaningful, and every design timeless. As the industry shifts toward wellness and experiential design, she sees the firm’s role as crafting legacies that transcend trends and shape how people truly live.
Leading with Impact
For Kristina, leadership begins with empathy, authenticity, and vision. At B8, she fosters a family-like environment where respect and trust guide creativity. Leading by example—balancing discipline with openness— she empowers every team member to contribute. This culture of collaboration fuels both the firm’s projects and the wider industry dialogue on how design can be inspiring and responsible, a human- centered approach that has helped B8 thrive.
PROJECTS
THAT DEFINE EXCELLENCE Each project defines Kristina—and, of course, her clients. She personally develops every initial concept and floor plan, ensuring a signature touch, and remains lead designer on most of B8’s projects. Standouts include Villa KB in Madrid (17,000 sqm plot, 4,000 sqm BUA), internationally awarded—even surpassing the Royal Atlantis for Best Landscape in 2023. Other notable projects include the AVA Penthouse in Palm Jumeirah, her Emirates Hills Mansion, and the Riviera Villa, each holding unique significance.
