Shaun and his team are shaping Zamani Islands in the Maldives, the region’s first fully renewable energy-powered resort, setting new benchmarks for eco-luxury. In the US and Angola, their hospitality and cultural projects are redefining local identities. A landmark tower in Baku is set to become Azerbaijan’s tallest at 323 metres. In Dubai, One Central, commissioned by DWTC and developed with Nick Candy, is a hyper-luxury development featuring three branded towers, two of which house luxury hotels. The project showcases an avant-garde design language that seamlessly integrates with Dubai’s urban fabric while elevating its skyline. Shaun remains deeply committed. to nurturing the next generation of architects. Leading 135 professionals from over 30 nationalities, he continues to champion sustainability, mentorship, and design excellence.

FROM START TO SUCCESS

Shaun Killa’s journey began in his stepfather’s studio, where he first explored design through sketches and models. Moving to Dubai in 1998, he contributed to projects such as the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Dubai Opera House—which helped shape the city’s cultural district—and the Bahrain World Trade Centre, the world’s first building to integrate wind turbines, setting a benchmark for sustainability in the Middle East. In 2015, he founded Killa Design, a transformative step marked by early milestones including the Museum of the Future and Address Beach Resort. Today, Shaun’s global portfolio spans ultra-luxury resorts like Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab in Dubai and Shebara Resort in KSA, alongside cultural landmarks and pioneering sustainable projects.

Leading with Impact

Shaun believes leadership is defined by vision, responsibility, and empowerment. At Killa Design, he fosters a collaborative environment that spans over 30 nationalities, encouraging young architects to think courageously yet responsibly. Shaun places sustainability and inclusivity at the heart of Killa Design, guiding the team to design with purpose and empathy. His philosophy is to inspire others to see architecture as a catalyst for change, shaping meaningful and lasting experiences.

THE ROAD AHEAD

Shaun believes the future of architecture must be regenerative, giving back more than it takes. At Killa Design, he focuses on creating buildings and resorts that enrich ecosystems, celebrate culture, and enhance human wellbeing. The firm is expanding globally, with projects across Uruguay, Rio de Janeiro, Las Vegas, Angola, the Maldives, Iceland, Cape Town, and India. With an office in Cape Town, Shaun is also planning to open offices in London and, in the coming years, Miami.

PROJECTS

THAT DEFINE EXCELLENCE The Museum of the Future stands as a cultural beacon, merging heritage, innovation, and sustainability. The Bahrain World Trade Centre pioneered renewable energy integration, proving design can shape environmental progress. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab redefined ultra-luxury hospitality with a yacht-inspired form that completes Dubai’s oceanic trilogy. Shebara Resort in Saudi Arabia set a global benchmark as a fully off-grid eco-luxury destination achieving net-zero energy, water, and waste. These projects embody Shaun’s ethos: architecture must inspire, innovate, and endure.