A leading authority on place, people, and future-responsive environments, Ibrahim brings over three decades of global design and strategy experience to the academic community. In this role, he will contribute to the school’s teaching and research ambitions, help shape its evolving identity and strengthen ties between academia and industry.
“It’s a real honour to join the Welsh School of Architecture as an Honorary Visiting Professor,” says Ibrahim. “I’m passionate about exploring the future of place, and I look forward to working with the next generation of designers and thinkers to challenge assumptions, provoke ideas, and imagine new possibilities for how we live, work, and connect. This is a moment where future thinking is essential, and I’m excited to be part of a university that’s putting it at the heart of its agenda.”
Throughout his career, Ibrahim has led the design of future-ready destinations across the globe, including RAI Amsterdam’s flagship exhibition center, Bikini Berlin – the world’s first concept mall – and Parco Romano, a major adaptive reuse and Olympic legacy site in Milan.
A graduate of the Royal College of Art and Imperial College London, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, Ibrahim is a frequent speaker, published author, and strategic advisor to leading brands and cities. His book Future Ready Retail explores the evolution of experience and place, as well as its implications for high streets, town centers, and consumer culture. He has also contributed to The Economist Insights, offering commentary on how brands and environments must evolve.
His appointment by Cardiff University reinforces Portland’s commitment to nurturing thought leadership across education, practice, and research—ensuring that today’s big questions become tomorrow’s meaningful solutions.
