Paul Bishop, a British interior designer, has established himself as a pioneer in the world of design, particularly in the Middle East and beyond. As the founder of Bishop Design, a firm he launched in 2004, Bishop has transformed the interior design landscape with his innovative, award-winning projects that span commercial, hospitality, retail, and residential sectors. Based in Dubai and Miami, Bishop Design has become synonymous with creativity, excellence, and a personal touch that sets it apart in a competitive industry.
Born and raised in the UK, Paul Bishop graduated from Kingston University with a degree in Interior Design in 1992. His journey into the design world took a significant turn when he moved to Dubai in 1996. Over the next eight years, he honed his skills and gained invaluable experience, working on diverse projects that laid the foundation for his future success. This period was crucial in shaping his understanding of the Middle Eastern market and its unique design opportunities.
Founding Bishop Design
In 2004, Paul Bishop took a bold step by founding Bishop Design in Dubai. From its inception, the firm has dedicated itself to creating groundbreaking interiors that push the boundaries of conventional design. Bishop Design’s portfolio includes an impressive range of projects secured through recommendations, referrals, and repeat business—a testament to the firm’s ability to consistently exceed client expectations. Today, the company operates with a team of over 30 talented professionals and has expanded its reach to include offices in Miami, reflecting its global ambitions.
Design Philosophy
Paul Bishop’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in innovation and authenticity. He believes in creating spaces that are functional and emotionally engaging. “Design is swings and roundabouts,” he says. “Nothing is set in stone, and you must earn your worth. Only by being your authentic self can you attract the right people, creating instant connections and relationships that will last forever, no matter where in the world you are.” This approach has allowed him to build lasting partnerships and deliver designs that resonate with clients and users alike.
Bishop draws inspiration from a wide array of sources, including interior design, architecture, food, music, stage and film (notably from directors like Ridley Scott and Peter Greenaway), travel, the Deconstructivism movement, and fashion (with influences from designers like McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, and JP Gautier). This eclectic mix enables him to craft spaces that are culturally rich and artistically significant. His philosophy also emphasizes breaking away from norms, especially in saturated markets like Dubai’s hospitality sector, where he strives to deliver thought-provoking and memorable experiences.
Notable Projects
Paul Bishop’s portfolio is a showcase of his versatility and creativity. Below is a table highlighting some of his most notable projects:
| Project | Location | Description |
| Torno Subito | W Hotel, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai | A fine-dining restaurant designed for chef Massimo Bottura, blending Italian elegance with modern flair. |
| Wavehouse | Dubai | A vibrant waterfront venue reflecting dynamic energy and innovative design. |
| Studio One Hotel | Dubai | A modern hotel showcasing functional yet aesthetically pleasing interiors. |
| Arboretum Restaurant | Dubai | A refurbished luxury dining space for the Jumeirah Group. |
| T3 Airport Lounge | Dubai | A sophisticated lounge redesigned for Jumeirah, enhancing traveler experiences. |
| Intercontinental Hotel | Morocco | A luxurious project reflecting cultural sensitivity and modern design. |
| Rosewood Hotels ‘Super Spa’ | Qatar | A cutting-edge spa designed to elevate luxury hospitality experiences. |
| Maiz | Diriyah, Saudi Arabia | A culturally significant restaurant overseen by HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman. |
These projects have enhanced user experiences and contributed to the visual identity of the regions where they are located.
Awards and Recognition
Bishop Design’s excellence has been widely recognized, with the firm receiving over 100 regional and international awards. In 2021, it was named Interior Design Firm of the Year at the Commercial Interior Awards. Paul Bishop himself has been honored with the title of Interior Designer of the Year eight times between 2018 and 2023 by esteemed bodies such as Design Middle East. Additionally, the firm has won five LIV Hospitality Design Awards in recent years, underscoring its global impact. These accolades reflect Bishop Design’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of design and delivering exceptional results.
Global Expansion
Recognizing the potential for growth beyond the Middle East, Paul Bishop expanded Bishop Design to Miami, Florida. This strategic move aims to bring the firm’s unique design perspective to the vibrant US market. With offices now in Dubai and Miami, Bishop Design is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of success on a global scale, focusing on markets like Saudi Arabia and the Americas. The firm’s subdivision, Rogue by Bishop Design, further enhances its offerings, including architecture, brand ideation, and food and beverage consultancy.
Team and Personal Touch
At the heart of Bishop Design’s success is its team of over 30 talented professionals. Paul Bishop emphasizes the importance of a dedicated team and the personal touch applied to each project. “Doing what I do, and being surrounded by the people and the energy that is generated keeps me inspired,” he shares. “I love living in the moment.” This passion for collaboration and creativity ensures that every project is executed with precision and care, fostering long-term relationships with clients.
Educational Contributions
Paul Bishop’s commitment to the design community extends beyond his professional work. In 2021, he launched the Paul Bishop Design scholarship at Kingston University, providing financial support to students pursuing degrees in interior design or product and furniture design. The scholarship offers three years of fully funded tuition and annual stipends, prioritising under-represented groups. This initiative reflects his desire to nurture the next generation of designers and give back to the industry that has shaped his career.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Paul Bishop and his team at Bishop Design are focused on continued innovation and expansion. With a strong presence in the Middle East and a growing footprint in the US, the firm is set to take on new challenges and redefine interior design standards across the globe. Their commitment to excellence and creativity ensures that they will remain at the forefront of the industry for years to come.
Paul Bishop’s journey from a graduate in the UK to a leading figure in global interior design is a story of passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Through Bishop Design, he has not only created beautiful spaces but has also set new benchmarks for creativity in the field. His ability to blend cultural sensitivity with modern innovation has made him a true icon in the world of interior design. As he continues to inspire through his work and initiatives, Paul Bishop remains a driving force in shaping the future of design.
