Tim Martin, Principal and Managing Director of Gensler Middle East, talks about his professional journey, favourite areas of work, sustainability, and future expansion plans
With over 20 years of global industry experience, how have you seen this field evolve with the times?
Over the past two decades, I’ve witnessed significant evolution within our industry, marked by dynamic shifts in sustainability, technology, design philosophies, and client expectations.
Climate change has emerged as a paramount concern, reflecting a broader societal awareness of environmental responsibility. There’s been an increasing demand for designs that minimise ecological impact and maximise carbon net zero, leading to innovations in materials, construction techniques, and building systems.
At the same time, we’ve seen the integration of advanced technologies into every facet of our work, empowering architects and designers to visualise, iterate, and communicate ideas more effectively than ever before.
As a result, the role of the architect has expanded beyond mere design to encompass broader strategic consulting and placemaking. Clients seek partners who can not only deliver aesthetically pleasing structures but also create environments and experiences that foster community, wellness, and productivity.
What do you view as your greatest achievement in this role to date?
It all begins and ends with our clients. Gensler’s portfolio has grown significantly over the last five years and this is a true testament to pioneering progress as we continue to help shape societies and spark bold new ideas.
Gensler’s team has tripled and our physical footprint in the Middle has expanded significantly. We continue to create an international and diverse community of designers and architects, acting as an extension of one global firm, with one goal – to design the most impactful, healthiest, and most suitable environments in our field.
A pivotal aspect of our growth has been the expansion and nurturing of our Saudi Arabia office. By fostering a culture of excellence, empowerment, and collaboration, we have attracted top-tier talent in line with Saudi’s Vision 2030 Saudization program and cultivated a high-performing, on-the-ground team, which is driving innovation and delivering exceptional results for our clients.
What are your favourite areas of work, commercial, fit-out, hospitality, residential, or something else, and where do you find inspiration?
We are working across all of those sectors, and more, so it’s hard to pick one! Large projects, with their scale and complexity, fascinate me as they require innovative thinking and strategic vision at the outset to address the unique challenges they pose. From envisioning futuristic smart cities to developing sustainable infrastructure solutions, these projects push the boundaries of what is possible and inspire us to think boldly and creatively.
Master planning, with its focus on comprehensive development strategies and long-term visioning, appeals to my passion for holistic thinking and strategic design. It has the power to transform entire regions, shape the trajectory of urban development, and be the catalyst for economic growth; fuelling thriving business and vibrant urban communities. These projects are always human-centric which is at the heart of all we do.
How do you approach challenges and complexities that arise during the project lifecycle, and how does your team ensure successful project completion?
Our approach is rooted in collaboration, communication, and a relentless commitment to problem-solving. By fostering a culture of teamwork and transparency, we overcome all obstacles and always ensure successful project completion.
By actively involving clients and partners in the decision-making process and soliciting their feedback and insights, Gensler can align the project vision with their vision, fostering a sense of ownership and partnership that is essential for success.
We also draw on the diverse experiences and perspectives of Gensler experts and research specialists from around the world, assembling multidisciplinary teams that bring a wealth of knowledge, skills, and insights to the table.
I always encourage open and honest communication within the team, creating a culture where everyone feels empowered to voice their solutions, share ideas, and collaborate on design.
How has the definition of sustainability evolved throughout your career?
Initially, the concept of sustainability was rooted in environmental conservation and resource efficiency, focusing on strategies to reduce energy consumption, minimise waste, and mitigate environmental impact. However, over time, the definition has broadened to encompass a more holistic and multidimensional perspective.
One key aspect of this evolution has been the recognition of the interconnectedness between human and planetary health and the built environment. Beyond minimising environmental impact, sustainable design now prioritises the creation of healthy and inclusive spaces that promote occupant well-being, productivity, and quality of life. This includes considerations such as indoor air quality, access to natural light, ergonomic design, and biophilic elements that connect people with nature.
We’re incredibly proud of how we’ve moved the dial on sustainability within the built environment. Gensler was the first architecture firm to report on its carbon footprint and works tirelessly around the world to keep innovating in this space. We made a public commitment when we announced the Gensler Cities Climate Challenge which states that, by 2030, all our work will be net zero. Over the next six years, converting our portfolio will offset hundreds of millions of metric tons of CO2 as the savings compound each year. This is a challenge to ourselves — and to all architects and designers around the world.
How does Gensler as a design practice create a positive impact in the communities you operate within?
Firstly, we look at everyday impact. We believe that in an era of unprecedented change, our innovative designs can redefine the urban experience, integrating the evolving needs of work, living, and recreation in our cities.
Secondly, inclusive impact. We believe that great design is for everyone. Gensler’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity ensures our cityscapes reflect and celebrate the rich tapestry of urban society.
Finally, personal impact. We believe that each project we undertake has the potential to improve health and wellness, influencing how people live, work, and interact in our urban landscapes.
What are you working on currently?
We’re involved in several exciting projects that span a diverse range of sectors, scales, and geographies, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for innovation and impact.
Across the region, we’re leading key projects that showcase our firm’s expertise and commitment to excellence. From SEVEN’s ambitious and inspiring entertainment destinations in the Kingdom to creating immersive and experiential hospitality and leisure environments in the UAE. We’ve also had the privilege of working with some of the biggest brands in the world as they launch their Middle East operations, entrusting us to design innovative and inspiring spaces that reflect their brand identity, foster collaboration and creativity, and provide an exceptional experience for employees and visitors.
As you think about the future, where do you see yourself and Gensler, especially in terms of the architecture and your contribution?
My aspiration is to continue building on our strong reputation for innovation, excellence, and client-centricity. By leveraging our multi-disciplinary expertise and deep understanding of the local market dynamics, I aim to lead transformative projects that not only meet the evolving needs of our clients but also contribute to the sustainable growth and development of the Middle East.
Looking further afield, we want to expand our footprint into the wider MENA region, establishing our presence in emerging markets and cultural hubs where our design-led approach and global perspective can make a significant impact.
We’re also diversifying our service offerings in the region to address emerging trends and challenges. This includes expanding into additional practice areas such as aviation and sports, where our design expertise and strategic insights can drive meaningful change.
Ultimately, my goal is to continue driving Gensler’s legacy of design excellence and positive impact, while also empowering the next generation of architects and designers to push the boundaries of what is possible and shape a brighter future for the built environment.
