Francesco Anzolin, Co-Founder of Whitespace Architects and the distinguished recipient of the Architect of the Year 2022 by Design Middle East Awards, embodies a legacy of architectural excellence spanning over three decades. Born in Italy, Francesco’s innate passion for architecture traces back to his formative years, culminating in a journey of discovery and innovation.

Graduating from the University of Naples, Francesco’s early experiences in Rome were rooted in the restoration and preservation of cultural heritage. However, his insatiable desire to create new architectural marvels propelled him to embark on a transformative journey. In 2001, he began working with Massimiliano Fuksas in Rome, contributing to significant projects including the new design center for Ferrari in Maranello and the Nardini laboratory (Bolle Nardini) in Bassano del Grappa.

The MINA RASHID DEVELOPMENT offers the residents of Dubai a premium residential neighborhood with direct access to the marina and waterfront. The area aims to serve as a connective tissue of the community and the waterfront. It is linked together through a continuous welcoming and vibrant public realm seamlessly flowing through promenades, open spaces, streets and residential areas.

In 2010, Francesco partnered with Yasser to establish Whitespace The MINA RASHID DEVELOPMENT offers the residents of Dubai a premium residential neighborhood with direct access to the marina and waterfront. The area aims to serve as a connective tissue of the community and the waterfront. It is linked together through a continuous welcoming and vibrant public realm seamlessly flowing through promenades, open spaces, streets and residential areas. Architecture, driven by a shared vision to bridge Western European and Arabic cultures through luxury architectural innovation. With visionary zeal, Francesco advocates for architecture as a dynamic fusion of form and function, poised to address contemporary challenges and redefine modern luxury living.

Whitespace Architects, under Francesco’s stewardship, has emerged as a trailblazer in the luxury architectural landscape, pioneering new paradigms of opulent design and sustainability. Guided by the philosophy of “Rethinking Tradition for a Contemporary Lifestyle,” Whitespace Architects is committed to pushing the boundaries of luxury architecture, creating spaces that inspire and endure. Francesco’s leadership at Whitespace Architects is characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to delivering luxury projects that leave a lasting impression. With a diverse portfolio of opulent projects spanning the globe, Francesco and his team continue to shape the future of luxury architecture, one innovative design at a time.