International architecture firm John McAslan + Partners announced plans to establish a new office in Saudi Arabia following an exceptionally successful financial year that saw its Middle East revenue nearly triple. The London-based practice revealed the expansion plans after reporting dramatic growth in its regional business operations.
According to the company's financial accounts for the year ending October 31, 2024, the firm's Middle East turnover skyrocketed from $6.6 million in 2023 to $17.8 million in 2024. This remarkable growth means that the firm's Middle Eastern projects now account for 83% of its total worldwide income of $21.5 million. The overall revenue figure itself represents a doubling from the $10.3 million reported in unaudited figures for 2023.
The architectural practice demonstrated strong financial performance across all metrics, posting a pre-tax profit of $3.9 million in 2024. This represents a significant increase from the $1.1 million profit recorded in the previous accounting period. During the trading year, the firm's average workforce expanded from 42 to 48 employees, reflecting the growing demand for its services.
In response to this regional success, John McAslan + Partners plans to launch a dedicated office in Riyadh this fall. The firm stated that the Saudi expansion reflects both growing regional demand and a deepening commitment to cultural collaboration in the Middle East. The practice already operates studios in London, Edinburgh, Sydney, and New York, making the Saudi office its fifth international location.
Among the firm's notable Middle East projects is a major cultural facility located opposite the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif site in Riyadh. This project exemplifies the practice's focus on culturally significant architectural work in the region. The firm has positioned itself as a key player in Saudi Arabia's ambitious cultural and urban development initiatives.
Beyond the Middle East, John McAslan + Partners maintains an active global portfolio of ongoing projects. These include the transformation of George Square in Glasgow, Scotland, and the construction of the Passivhaus-led Saïd Business School in Oxford, which is scheduled for completion later this year. The firm is also working on a new dental university in Malawi, demonstrating its international reach across multiple continents.
The practice has also expanded its ownership structure, broadening ownership to 15 members of the existing team. This internal restructuring reflects the firm's growth and commitment to employee participation in its success.
Looking ahead, company chair John McAslan expressed optimism about future performance in the firm's accounts statement. He indicated that the current trading year is expected to be even more successful, writing that "the practice expects to surpass this year's financial performance due to the strong pipeline of secured new commissions in the UK and internationally." This confidence is backed by a robust portfolio of confirmed projects spanning multiple markets and building types.
