In a transformative era for global tourism, leading architecture firms are increasingly taking center stage in shaping the travel experiences of tomorrow. From immersive cultural destinations to ultra-luxury resorts and smart airports, the world’s top architectural firms are redefining what it means to travel — blending sustainability, innovation, and storytelling into iconic developments.
Gensler: Designing Destinations Across Continents
As the world’s largest architecture firm by revenue, Gensler continues to leave an indelible mark on tourism. With projects spanning airports, city masterplans, and hotel experiences, Gensler’s integrated design philosophy has positioned the firm as a top choice for governments and private developers alike. Its recent work on urban tourism hubs in Asia and Latin America reflects its global reach.
Foster + Partners: Engineering Icons for Tourism
London-based Foster + Partners remains at the forefront of tourism infrastructure, contributing to iconic landmarks such as airports, museums, and eco-resorts. Notably, the firm is behind the Red Sea International Airport in Saudi Arabia, which aims to serve one million visitors annually while being powered entirely by renewable energy — a blueprint for sustainable tourism in the Middle East.
WATG: The Resort Architects of the World
Specializing in resort and hospitality design, WATG (Wimberly Allison Tong & Goo) has created some of the most photographed luxury destinations globally. From the Maldives to Morocco, WATG fuses local culture with high-end leisure design, often setting the architectural benchmark for destination resorts.
HKS Architects: Creating Wellness-Oriented Tourism Spaces
Dallas-based HKS Architects brings a regenerative design approach to tourism, focusing on well-being and environmental harmony. Their hospitality projects prioritize community inclusion, biophilic design, and low-carbon building techniques — all of which are increasingly demanded by discerning travelers.
Killa Design: The Face of Futuristic Tourism in the Gulf
Rising rapidly in global rankings, Dubai’s Killa Design has captured attention with its bold, futuristic architecture. Known for the Museum of the Future and The Address Beach Resort, the firm is leading a new era of tourism design that emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and regional identity.
Signature Projects Driving Change
• The Ellinikon, Athens: Europe’s largest coastal redevelopment project is transforming a defunct airport into a sustainable tourism district. Designed by Kengo Kuma and Foster + Partners, the site will offer parks, marinas, and cultural venues aimed at year-round tourism.
• Pearling Path, Bahrain: A blend of conservation and tourism, this UNESCO-listed project restores historic pearl-diving sites through contemporary urban design, attracting culturally curious travelers while preserving heritage.
Sustainability at the Core
Tourism-focused architecture now heavily emphasizes environmental responsibility. Structures like the Rolex Pavilion at the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale showcase the global push for eco-conscious tourism facilities, with architects integrating renewable energy, recyclable materials, and smart building systems.
Conclusion
As global travel rebounds and redefines itself post-pandemic, architecture plays a crucial role in shaping both physical experiences and emotional connections to destinations. The world’s biggest firms — from Gensler to Killa Design — are proving that good architecture is not just about aesthetics, but about inspiring sustainable, culturally rich, and future-ready tourism.
