2025-03-17
17 Mar 25

Woods Bagot London welcomes James Miles, strengthening European presence with two decades of design and masterplanning excellence. 

The Woods Bagot Global Studio welcomes Associate Principal James Miles to its London team, bringing fresh perspective and nearly two decades of international expertise to strengthen the studio’s European presence. 

With a wealth of experience and the dexterity to design and lead complex projects across diverse sectors, James brings a portfolio spanning urban strategy to finely crafted detailing. For the past seven years, he has focused on the European market, with particular expertise in evolving masterplans, workplace, and residential opportunities in diverse locations.  

James understands the commercial pressures projects face and helps clients unlock the inherent value of their assets through creative solutions which are grounded in pragmatism. He looks forward to using his experience leading multi-disciplinary teams to develop exemplary design solutions, building consensus amongst complex stakeholder groups, and maximising value for clients across the region.  

“I was attracted to Woods Bagot for several reasons,” says James. “It’s a global practice with a local mindset, combining innovation with deep contextual understanding. The firm offers the agility of a boutique design firm backed by the expertise of an international studio, along with a bold vision for expansion across Europe, particularly in Italy, where I’ve been active for the past seven years.” 

James joins Principal Florian Frotscher with his breadth of expertise across multiple European markets. Supported by the global experience, design and technical excellence of the entire Woods Bagot network, the duo brings a deep understanding of project and client needs.  

“The European market demands both artistry and functionality,” notes Florian. “With James’s arrival, we strengthen our capability to navigate these nuanced requirements.” 

The European market demands both artistry and functionality,” notes Florian. “With James’s arrival, we strengthen our capability to navigate these nuanced requirements.

Florian Frotscher – Principal

Previously, James served as a Director at Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) in London. During his tenure, he established new markets across continental Europe and led significant projects including the 2 million sqft ExTM Masterplan in Milan and the masterplanning of Covent Garden in London alongside a wider portfolio of urban regeneration schemes across Italy, The Netherlands and the UK. Before KPF, James worked with Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands, where he led award-winning projects including Fitzroy Place in London and the Jewish Community Centre (JW3), with two projects mid-listed for the Stirling Prize. 

“James’s approach focuses on creating vibrant, integrated environments that balance residential, commercial, and cultural elements while respecting historical context—making him an excellent addition to our London team,” says London Studio Chair James Taylor. “His experience across European markets and ability to work across scales and disciplines perfectly complement our studio’s capabilities and ambitions for growth.” 

James possesses the innate skill of stitching together the urban canvas of residential neighbourhoods and workplace campuses to create thriving environments. At Woods Bagot, he looks forward to expanding the studio’s portfolio across London, the UK, and Europe with projects that positively impact global cities.  

“My focus will be on strengthening our expertise in masterplanning, urban regeneration, and placemaking, especially in historic cities. The European market offers unique opportunities with its diverse urban and cultural contexts and local demands, and I’m particularly excited about building Woods Bagot’s brand and presence across the region, with special attention to Italy.” 

“A multi-disciplinary collaborative approach is precisely what’s needed to reimagine our urban environments,” James continues. “Data-informed design, sustainability expertise, urban design, landscape and architecture must work together if we’re to transform cities into integrated regenerative ecosystems that serve their inhabitants whilst embracing a wilder naturalism and maximizing ecological potential.” 

On the future of architecture, James offers perspective on both the profession and the built environment. “The role of the architect is evolving. While specialisation is increasing, the architect as a generalist—navigating scales, typologies, and project phases—is more relevant than ever. As technology and AI streamline tasks, we’ll have more space to focus on what we do best: creating beautiful solutions from complex challenges.” 

 

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