Niche Expertise Embedding Nuance & Layers to Modern Architectural

By: Rachita Sharma, Managing Editor | Friday, 12 September 2025

Architecture is an enduring artform that stays on as a legacy for decades, if not centuries.

Impacting all living and working spaces, architecture plays a crucial role in influencing how people live their lives and experience the world. Standing at the intersection of art and science, architecture helps create environments that both inspire and serve.

The significance of architects can hardly be overstated. Their indispensable role is highlighted by statistics about the positive outlook on the global architectural services market. In 2023, the industry was valued at $395.17 billion. Expected to grow at a 9.8% CAGR, the architectural services market will be worth $916.65 billion by 2032, suggests data from SkyQuest Technology Consulting.

While the overall architectural design and services industry is slated for considerable growth in the near future, several niches have developed in this sector. Making the most of creative professionals, niche segments such as landscape architecture, architectural lighting etc have gained prominence.

The current edition of WER magazine puts the spotlight of Dubai’s architectural industry, which is a world-renowned marvel in itself. Known for being home to some of the most iconic structures of the modern-world, Dubai is the epicentre of creativity and vision in architecture.

In this special edition we feature some of the region’s most prolific women architects who have built a solid reputation in their specific niches. One such name is Carrie Das, founder of Studio SuCo, a Dubai-based interior design studio. She is known for creating timeless, elegant spaces that blend global influences with refined luxury. With over 25 years of experience, Carrie leads every project, ensuring it reflects the client's lifestyle and aspirations. She focuses on high-end residential projects and selects corporate and boutique hospitality work, emphasizing on clarity, integrity, and authenticity.

From the world of architectural design, we feature Regina Santos. Drawing on deep regional experience, technical expertise, and a forward-thinking design philosophy, Regina has built a career at the intersection of innovation and craft in architectural lighting. As Founder and Design Director of Light Fusion, she has led projects across the Middle East, bringing creativity and expertise to complex design challenges.

The master of another niche, landscape architecture, is Asli Ergen. As the director of ONE Landscape, Asli brings over several years of experience in architecture and landscape design that focuses on strategic growth and global collaborations. Her thought leadership extends beyond geographies, allowing her to operate efficiently and independently through a strongly built design team and a loyal portfolio of client base. Her work honors local heritage with forward-thinking solutions that enhance community engagement and ecological awareness ultimately benefiting the future generations.

Read interesting conversations featuring the aforementioned women architects to know more about their niches, creative process & more.

Do let us know your thoughts.