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BDP appoints new MENA studio lead
Multidisciplinary architecture and design practice, BDP has appointed a new studio lead in Abu Dhabi to capitalise on its recent success and to deliver on its growth strategy for the United Arab Emirates and the wider MENA region.
Craig Howard, who previously worked as an associate architect for BDP from 2012-2018, has rejoined to lead the practice following the retirement of Gary Dicken who opened BDP’s MENA operation in 2010.
Under Craig’s leadership, the 20-strong, multidisciplinary team of architects, planners and interior designers will continue to build on the legacy of BDP’s work in the region, which includes several regional schools, the refurbishment of Qasr al Hosn in Abu Dhabi, the interior design of Heriot Watt University in Dubai and the full architectural design for the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal at Port Zayed, Abu Dhabi.
Craig has more than 25 years’ experience delivering a range of projects in New Zealand, Australia, the UK and across the MENA region, where he has worked for the last 12 years. Prior to rejoining BDP, Craig worked for GHD where he was a principal and design director. He acted as project director on the new 4,500 student Yasmina British Academy and the new Early Learning Campus Cranleigh School, both for Aldar Properties in Abu Dhabi. He delivered projects such as zero energy/zero carbon workplace facilities for Masdar City and the INSEAD business school Abu Dhabi Campus over his five years with the organisation.
Of his appointment, Craig said: “I am excited to add to the BDP story in Abu Dhabi and to continue expanding on the evolution of architecture and design in the UAE. As we embark on a new era dedicated to the social, collaborative, and interactive impact of the built environment, BDP is well placed to deliver its unique brand of beautifully simple, socially progressive design.
“My cross-sector experience means I have built a passion for the design and delivery of high-quality spaces, that focus on positive social & environmental outcomes. At BDP, we have a chance to influence how places impact people and communities and build a better, more prosperous region that influences how we design buildings, for all.”
Craig’s experience will bring new focus to BDP’s work on educational institutions in the region and will enable it to extend its experience in the cultural and heritage sector; bringing sustainable building innovations to market that support greener construction, operation, and maintenance.
Craig finishes: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Gary Dicken for his leadership and wish him a very happy retirement. He had a significant influence on the design community in the UAE. Many of the most cohesive, progressive masterplans and projects have Gary’s DNA on them and I look forward to continuing the legacy he has left.”
