Mark Powell Kyffin

Mark is the Director of Architecture for Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture & Tourism, a past Branch President of the RIBA and a former member of the Institute of Historic Building Conservators. Mark has studied and worked in the field of Architecture for over 28 years, extensively working on complex and demanding projects particularly in the Arts, Culture, and Heritage Sectors. For the past eighteen years he has worked in The UAE and gained an extensive knowledge of both Vernacular Architecture and the Modern Heritage of Abu Dhabi. He has also worked on the master-planning, design and delivery of Saadiyat Islands Cultural District which includes prestigious museums such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum. Prior to practicing in the UAE, he worked for several high-profile Architectural Practices in the UK. His work has been internationally recognised by his peers for the rehabilitation of Liverpool's oldest city centre building, The Bluecoat', which is a World Heritage Site that was conserved and extended as a contemporary arts centre in 2008. He is also a regular jury chair and member at The World Architecture Festival which he was also delighted to have been a category winner in 2008, 2019 and 2021.