Godwin Austen Johnson expands design team following growth of regional contracts

In line with the firm's business development strategy GAJ has expanded into Tunisia and Libya after securing a number of architectural and design projects. GAJ has also won additional contracts within its largest project Sharm Al Sheikh City Stars - a phased 15-year commercial, residential, retail and leisure development in Egypt which, when complete, will be the size of Wales and will contain the world's largest swimming pool.

GAJ has appointed 10 architects and interior designers, primarily from within the UAE, to support the growth in business. The new recruits will work on a range of large mixed use developments comprising hospitality, commercial and residential elements as well as existing projects that have increased in scope.

GAJ attributes its recent success to a considered approach to business diversification and regional expansion. The firm now has over 180 staff at its offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the UK and offers a wide range of expertise in architecture, interior design, graphic design and structural engineering to meet the demands of the fast-developing economies across the region.

"The MENA region appears to have weathered the economic storm that we have seen globally over the past two years better than most. The countries that make up the region are still developing many aspects of their economies and the projects that we are undertaking there are reflections of this," said Brian Johnson, Principal and Managing Partner of GAJ.

"We are mostly working on hospitality projects, which will help to support the growing tourism industries, and residential and commercial projects, which will assist in meeting the requirements for new accommodation among the individuals, families and companies that are moving into the region," he added.

With its multi-disciplinary design offering, GAJ has been able to bring financial and time efficiencies to clients - another boon in the current business climate. In Libya the firm was awarded the contract for interior design as well as for the branding of a 7-star hotel and says its integrated design capabilities are already reaping dividends for the client.

Within the Middle East, GAJ seeks to create a marriage of contemporary design with traditional Arabic and Islamic influences. Its distinctive approach to design continues to attract new business opportunities from across the region as well as recognition from the industry. Most recently GAJ was awarded Middle East Architectural Firm of the Year (modern architecture category) at the Middle East Architect's Awards 2009.

"The rich history and culture of the region make it a fascinating place to work. Our challenge will always be to provide design proposals that capture the essence of the region and its people, while at the same time being contemporary and appropriate for the requirements of living in the 21st century. We are seeking to create a design language which helps give the region a sense of identity," said Johnson.