In the fragmented landscape of contemporary architecture, few firms have consistently delivered work that is both culturally relevant and technically excellent for over thirty years. GDP Architects is one such rarity. For decades, they have been the benchmark: the practice that students aspire to join upon graduation, and the model that principals look to when shaping their own firms. The enduring success of GDP is not accidental.
Under the enduring stewardship of Kamil Merican and Syed Sobri Syed Ismail, GDP has fostered a practice culture that operates less like a corporate entity and more like a modern guild. The magic of GDP lies in its steady leadership and a team culture that understands architecture is not just about aesthetics. Instead, they view design as a commitment to the greater good, ensuring their work benefits society as a whole. Through an exemplary practice culture and a strong, shared ethos, they have cultivated a collective attitude towards design that is rare to find.
To understand the significance of their current exhibition, group, design, partnership, one must look back at their beginnings. Established in 1990, the firm was born during a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. It was the era of the economic boom, a time when a confident and progressive Malaysia was eager to announce itself to the world. Opportunities were abundant, but the young firm did not just seek to build; they aspired to create exemplary architecture that demonstrated the country’s potential.
Their journey began with Seri Duta in Bukit Tunku, a project that reimagined tropical living through a cluster of low-rise apartments, followed quickly by the research and administrative buildings for PROTON in Shah Alam. Over the next three and a half decades, projects by GDP have consistently shaped our built environment, challenging the fraternity to raise our standards. Their relevance has not faded with time. In 2025 alone, the firm secured an impressive list of accolades from PAM: the Building of the Year and Gold Award for Media City Angkasapuri, a Gold Award for their own GDP Campus, a Silver Award for The Legacy OUG, and a Commendation for Hentian Cambrian Pantai Kok Langkawi.
Over the span of 35 years, they have not shied away from the unknown, tackling almost every building typology imaginable-from high-density housing and corporate towers to complex transport hubs and civic institutions. Yet, within this immense variety and diversity of work, a distinct identity emerges. It is not found in a repetitive visual style, but in a consistent rigor and quality. For GDP, every new challenge is an invitation to innovate, ensuring that while the function of their buildings may change, the underlying DNA of the practice remains unmistakable.
The exhibition, held recently at the GDP Campus, was a celebration of these achievements. The event marked the firm’s 35th anniversary, the launch of their eponymous book, and the opening of their headquarters to the public.
What made this exhibition particularly compelling was its setting. By hosting it within the GDP Campus-a workspace purpose-built by the firm-the venue became part of the story. It allowed visitors to experience the architecture of GDP from the inside out. Spanning Levels 1 and 4, the exhibition took us through the roots of the practice, showcasing key projects through an array of physical models, technical drawings, and photography.
There is something powerful about seeing the “process” on display. In an era often dominated by polished digital renderings, the exhibition grounded us in the reality of making architecture. It highlighted the rigorous work that goes on behind the scenes, celebrating the collective effort required to bring complex buildings to life. It was a showcase of their prowess, certainly, but also a transparent look at their methodology.
We must also acknowledge and commend the leadership at GDP for the decision to open their office to the public. It is a generous act. By opening their workspace to the public, they created a platform for the exchange of ideas, not just within the design fraternity, but with the wider community. It helps demystify the profession and fosters a better understanding of what architects actually do.
Accompanying the exhibition is the publication of the book, group, design, partnership. Beyond serving as a record of the firm’s history, and going deeper than a simple portfolio, it captures the essence of their design culture, featuring interviews with key personnel and collaborators. It also acknowledges and documents the relationships and the partnerships beyond their walls-that have made their work possible.
As Editor-in-Chief of Architecture Malaysia, I share in the joy and success of this monumental and consequential Malaysian practice. GDP Architects has proven that a local firm can achieve world-class standards while remaining deeply rooted in its context. This exhibition and book are not just a look back at the past 35 years; they are a reminder of the enduring value of good design, strong leadership, and a collaborative spirit. We look forward to seeing how they will continue to shape our landscape in the years to come.
