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Rigby & Rigby CEO Iain Johnson has been a pivotal part the growth of the firm since its inception, dynamically executing the vision of a truly integrated design and delivery studio with full-service capabilities. A champion of the studio’s expansion, he has helped it to become a leading multi-award-winning name in ultra-prime delivery. Accredited in every division, the firm’s extensive expertise extends across development management, architecture, interior design, construction delivery and private client services, to create the most exceptional properties in the world.
Rigby & Rigby is a founding member of the luxury design group Allect, alongside Helen Green Design and Lawson Robb. Johnson’s vision was to bring together some of the finest names in architecture, interior and product design with the mission to foster an unrivalled level of creativity, innovation and excellence. Rigby & Rigby’s research and development-influenced architecture and interior design strikes a fine and complimentary balance with Helen Green’s elegantly British sensibility and Lawson Robb’s unique and vibrant interiors and yacht design. Johnson leads and oversees the group’s operational strategy and creative division – ensuring the brands individual identity, heritage and expertise is maintained and delivered as a complimentary offering, he is also creating collaborations with some of the world’s best architects and interior design studios providing clients a unique opportunity of choice within the full-service delivery model.
At the heart of Rigby & Rigby’s approach is Johnson’s profound commitment to the client experience. Architecturally trained with 20 years of industry leadership and experience, Iain’s ability to understand every facet of the design process ensures he is perfectly positioned to support clients throughout their development journey. This includes Rigby & Rigby’s award-winning Special Projects division, where Iain leads a dedicated development and delivery team undertaking the most complex signature new build and heritage restoration projects, requiring an additional level of attention and care.
Creatively Iain’s passion lays in driving innovation through research-based methodology, influencing the architectural and interior design studios to be more experimental and to maximise the client experience and enrich the user journey. The product being perfectly resolved residences, with a style defined as understated refined luxury, delivered with a service that is second to none.
Charlie has over 10 years’ experience in practice. He studied at Birmingham School of Architecture,
Manchester University and the Bartlett UCL, graduating with a First Class hons and Distinction then
registering with the ARB in 2015. Charlie’s student work was award winning and recognised within
the universities and externally by the Manchester society of architects for his final thesis project.
Whilst working in his year in industry Charlie and a colleague competed in a RIBA international
competition beating 400 entries for a redesign of the prestigious Pushkin cinema in Moscow.
Charlie spent over 7 years with Heatherwick Studio, holding key roles on several prestigious projects
including Bombay Saphire Gin Distillery(£25 Million), Eden residential tower(£40 Million) in Singapore
and Changi Airport Terminal 5. Roles included design guardian and resident site architect for Eden,
delivering the architecture and interiors on site for the high end residential tower, and workstream
lead for Changi T5 that involved coordinating complex design with specialist consultants for a
transportation hub along with acting as design guardian of interiors and look and feel for Heatherwick
Studio. Charlie worked closely with the client team,consultants and contractors travelling extensively
to factories, quarries and showrooms in Europe and Asia to ensure quality for these projects.
Following working in Singapore Charlie joined Snøhetta Hong Kong and worked on a luxury private
island residence in Greece before moving to Snøhetta Oslo. During his time in Oslo as senior architect
he held key lead roles in architecture and interiors for a Palace renovation in the UAE and the tallest
timber office tower in Finland for a Norwegian Developer. Charlie worked closely with the clients and
consultants to develop the design and ensure quality proposals.
Now at Rigby and Rigby, Charlie’s focus is on developing and supporting great design and growing
the international architecture side of the business.
Paul has fifteen years professional experience in Architectural Practice and has been involved in a number of projects across a variety of sectors, including education, pharmaceutical, aviation, R&D and high-end residential. Paul carries professional accreditation with both the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) & BIID (British Institute of Interior Designers).
In 2014, Paul joined Rigby & Rigby and has since gained extensive experience in the delivery of highly complex planning/LBC applications, along with the preparation of detailed/technical design packages, project management and interior scheme proposals for a number of properties within Super Prime London. Recent projects include the award winning 12 Charles Street apartment, R&R’s spectacular Grosvenor Square development, along with a selection of exceptional Private Client projects.
Yuchen Wu graduated with a BA (Hons) in Architecture (RIBA/ARB Part 1) from the Architectural Association, where his work was nominated for RIBA Prizes. During his studies, he gained professional experience at WATG in London, contributing to high-end international hospitality projects that honed his understanding of luxury design and large-scale development. Yuchen is passionate about creating large-scale sculptures and installations that bridge architecture, art, and storytelling. As the lead curator for the Thingness of Things exhibition, he orchestrated a multi-disciplinary showcase in a Grade II listed building in London, seamlessly blending conceptual narratives with tactile, physical creations. His interest in merging the boundaries of art and architecture defines his approach to spatial design. With expertise in live-action filmmaking and digital animation, Yuchen explores the intersection of filmmaking and architecture to challenge conventional design practices. His experimental approach and strong storytelling skills enable him to craft unique, visually compelling architectural visions that push creative boundaries and reimagine the potential of spatial experiences.
Andy has recently completed his Master's degree in Architecture from Birmingham City University, focusing on the adaptive re-use of existing architecture.
Prior to joining Rigby & Rigby, Andy gained valuable experience working on both large and small-scale commercial projects, working across all stages of design and construction.
Outside of work, Andy is a keen basketball player and also enjoys spending time with his family.
Isabelle approaches architecture with a global perspective and a strong foundation in delivering high-profile projects. Originally from Beirut, she has brought her international outlook to her work, having contributed to transformative designs both in her hometown and across the globe. Based in London, she has honed her expertise with leading practices, including Bjarke Ingels Group and Populous. Her work has encompassed innovative stadium developments, large-scale commercial projects, and the revitalisation of iconic landmarks.
A graduate of the Architectural Association in London, Isabelle brings a blend of innovative design sensibility and technical precision to every project. Her diverse experience has equipped her to tackle complex challenges with a balance of vision and practicality.
Now a member of the Rigby & Rigby team, Isabelle’s collaborative spirit and forward-thinking approach drive her commitment to creating architecture that stands the test of time, delivering meaningful, impactful spaces that resonate with clients and communities alike.
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Miguel is an architect with more than 15 years of experience who has worked in some of the most prestigious design offices in the UK and since then has been involved in a diverse range of projects, from commercial, to residential and hospitality. He graduated from the Ricardo Palma University in Peru and later obtained a master’s degree in Architecture and Urbanism from the Architectural Association in London.
Miguel’s body of work spans from delivering private residential projects, under the umbrella of Studio Coesa in London, to the design of much larger commercial buildings under firms such as Zaha Hadid Architects and then Heatherwick Studio. At these two firms, as Lead Designer and Project Manager, Miguel was instrumental in the development of landmark buildings such as the Google headquarters in USA and the UK, the Eden Residential Tower in Singapore, and the Morpheus Hotel in Macau. During such ventures, he also collaborated with influential firms such as BIG, Gensler, KPF and BDP.
Miguel’s work experience has equipped him with a strong conceptual and technical skillset, essential for conveying ideas to clients and collaborators and ensuring that concepts could come to fruition. During his time at the Morpheus Hotel project, he conceived the vision and style for its luxury interiors and coordinated the Cat A/B fit-out of the public spaces. During the Google experience, Miguel led the space planning coordination and delivered the look-and-feel design of its main entrances and public exhibition areas. Miguel’s more recent focus turned to residential design, and as part of his role in Studio Coesa, he delivered residential projects across all RIBA stages, this time with a greater emphasis on details, interior design, and energy efficiency.
Now, at Rigby & Rigby, Miguel is to pursue this direction and to focus on exciting architecture across the globe.
A Modernist Villa in Tropical Koh Samui
Located at 190 meters above sea level, this private residence commands one of Koh Samui’s most breathtaking vantage points. From its elevated position, the villa opens out to uninterrupted views of the Gulf of Thailand, where the horizon blends seamlessly with the tropical sky. Nestled among lush vegetation and dramatic stone formations, the development is conceived not as an intrusion on nature, but as sensitive intervention that responds to the context.
Design Philosophy
The architectural concept is rooted in modernist principles. The villa is designed to harmonize with its environment, responding to the natural contours of the site and integrating the building with its surroundings. Rather than dominating the hillside, the villa sits strategically between large rock formations, oriented to capture the prevailing winds and maximize panoramic views.
The horizontal arrangement of spaces reflects the layering of the landscape. Broad cantilevered terraces project outward, creating generous shaded areas and framing the sea beyond. This balance between openness and protection allows the architecture to breathe with the climate—light, air, and greenery become integral elements of the design encouraging inside outside living.
Living Experience
At its heart, the villa is designed as a family retreat, with shared spaces central to the experience. Expansive living areas flow onto outdoor terraces, allowing daily life to unfold in close connection with the tropical landscape. Each bedroom has been positioned to face the sea, ensuring every family member enjoys a personal connection to the spectacular views.
The ground floor is devoted to communal living: an open-plan lounge, dining spaces, and a poolside breakfast bar encourage interaction and togetherness. Outdoor living is celebrated, with spa facilities, terraces, and shaded lounges providing varied spaces for relaxation, entertainment, and play.
Integration with Nature
Water flow is an important element in the design, symbolizing both tranquillity and good feng shui. Cascading infinity pools, echo the movement of natural streams and waterfalls while reinforcing the essence of tropical living.
Vegetation plays an equally central role. Lush greenery drapes from upper terraces, softening the architectural lines and merging the villa into its tropical setting. Preserving as much as possible was a guiding principle: mature trees have been retained, ensuring that the villa feels woven into the hillside rather than imposed upon it.
Sustainability & Wellbeing
Respect for the environment extends beyond aesthetics into the villa’s core infrastructure and daily operations. A borehole and storm water reservoir system ensures self-sufficiency, reducing reliance on external sources and securing a sustainable supply for household use, irrigation, and pools.
The building itself is designed to work with the tropical climate rather than against it. Natural ventilation is achieved through strategic orientation, operable openings, and the careful placement of terraces, allowing cooling sea breezes to circulate throughout the home. This passive design approach minimizes the need for mechanical cooling, lowering energy demand while enhancing comfort.
Cantilevered terraces and deep roof overhangs provide natural shading, further reducing solar heat gain. Combined with the use of locally sourced stone and timber, these strategies create a home that is not only visually integrated with its environment but also carbon conscious.
A Timeless Tropical Sanctuary
We wanted this residence to be more than a house; it is a sanctuary that embodies the principles of modernist design while celebrating tropical family living. It represents a careful dialogue between architecture and environment, between privacy and openness, between modern horizontal lines and natural richness.
In its simplicity and sensitivity, the villa captures what makes life in Koh Samui extraordinary: the interplay of sea and sky, the lush abundance of the tropics, and possibility to exploit connection with nature and family life.
Project team
Rigby & Rigby CEO Iain Johnson has been a pivotal part the growth of the firm since its inception, dynamically executing the vision of a truly integrated design and delivery studio with full-service capabilities. A champion of the studio’s expansion, he has helped it to become a leading multi-award-winning name in ultra-prime delivery. Accredited in every division, the firm’s extensive expertise extends across development management, architecture, interior design, construction delivery and private client services, to create the most exceptional properties in the world.
Rigby & Rigby is a founding member of the luxury design group Allect, alongside Helen Green Design and Lawson Robb. Johnson’s vision was to bring together some of the finest names in architecture, interior and product design with the mission to foster an unrivalled level of creativity, innovation and excellence. Rigby & Rigby’s research and development-influenced architecture and interior design strikes a fine and complimentary balance with Helen Green’s elegantly British sensibility and Lawson Robb’s unique and vibrant interiors and yacht design. Johnson leads and oversees the group’s operational strategy and creative division – ensuring the brands individual identity, heritage and expertise is maintained and delivered as a complimentary offering, he is also creating collaborations with some of the world’s best architects and interior design studios providing clients a unique opportunity of choice within the full-service delivery model.
At the heart of Rigby & Rigby’s approach is Johnson’s profound commitment to the client experience. Architecturally trained with 20 years of industry leadership and experience, Iain’s ability to understand every facet of the design process ensures he is perfectly positioned to support clients throughout their development journey. This includes Rigby & Rigby’s award-winning Special Projects division, where Iain leads a dedicated development and delivery team undertaking the most complex signature new build and heritage restoration projects, requiring an additional level of attention and care.
Creatively Iain’s passion lays in driving innovation through research-based methodology, influencing the architectural and interior design studios to be more experimental and to maximise the client experience and enrich the user journey. The product being perfectly resolved residences, with a style defined as understated refined luxury, delivered with a service that is second to none.
Charlie has over 10 years’ experience in practice. He studied at Birmingham School of Architecture,
Manchester University and the Bartlett UCL, graduating with a First Class hons and Distinction then
registering with the ARB in 2015. Charlie’s student work was award winning and recognised within
the universities and externally by the Manchester society of architects for his final thesis project.
Whilst working in his year in industry Charlie and a colleague competed in a RIBA international
competition beating 400 entries for a redesign of the prestigious Pushkin cinema in Moscow.
Charlie spent over 7 years with Heatherwick Studio, holding key roles on several prestigious projects
including Bombay Saphire Gin Distillery(£25 Million), Eden residential tower(£40 Million) in Singapore
and Changi Airport Terminal 5. Roles included design guardian and resident site architect for Eden,
delivering the architecture and interiors on site for the high end residential tower, and workstream
lead for Changi T5 that involved coordinating complex design with specialist consultants for a
transportation hub along with acting as design guardian of interiors and look and feel for Heatherwick
Studio. Charlie worked closely with the client team,consultants and contractors travelling extensively
to factories, quarries and showrooms in Europe and Asia to ensure quality for these projects.
Following working in Singapore Charlie joined Snøhetta Hong Kong and worked on a luxury private
island residence in Greece before moving to Snøhetta Oslo. During his time in Oslo as senior architect
he held key lead roles in architecture and interiors for a Palace renovation in the UAE and the tallest
timber office tower in Finland for a Norwegian Developer. Charlie worked closely with the clients and
consultants to develop the design and ensure quality proposals.
Now at Rigby and Rigby, Charlie’s focus is on developing and supporting great design and growing
the international architecture side of the business.
Paul has fifteen years professional experience in Architectural Practice and has been involved in a number of projects across a variety of sectors, including education, pharmaceutical, aviation, R&D and high-end residential. Paul carries professional accreditation with both the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) & BIID (British Institute of Interior Designers).
In 2014, Paul joined Rigby & Rigby and has since gained extensive experience in the delivery of highly complex planning/LBC applications, along with the preparation of detailed/technical design packages, project management and interior scheme proposals for a number of properties within Super Prime London. Recent projects include the award winning 12 Charles Street apartment, R&R’s spectacular Grosvenor Square development, along with a selection of exceptional Private Client projects.
Yuchen Wu graduated with a BA (Hons) in Architecture (RIBA/ARB Part 1) from the Architectural Association, where his work was nominated for RIBA Prizes. During his studies, he gained professional experience at WATG in London, contributing to high-end international hospitality projects that honed his understanding of luxury design and large-scale development. Yuchen is passionate about creating large-scale sculptures and installations that bridge architecture, art, and storytelling. As the lead curator for the Thingness of Things exhibition, he orchestrated a multi-disciplinary showcase in a Grade II listed building in London, seamlessly blending conceptual narratives with tactile, physical creations. His interest in merging the boundaries of art and architecture defines his approach to spatial design. With expertise in live-action filmmaking and digital animation, Yuchen explores the intersection of filmmaking and architecture to challenge conventional design practices. His experimental approach and strong storytelling skills enable him to craft unique, visually compelling architectural visions that push creative boundaries and reimagine the potential of spatial experiences.
Andy has recently completed his Master's degree in Architecture from Birmingham City University, focusing on the adaptive re-use of existing architecture.
Prior to joining Rigby & Rigby, Andy gained valuable experience working on both large and small-scale commercial projects, working across all stages of design and construction.
Outside of work, Andy is a keen basketball player and also enjoys spending time with his family.
Isabelle approaches architecture with a global perspective and a strong foundation in delivering high-profile projects. Originally from Beirut, she has brought her international outlook to her work, having contributed to transformative designs both in her hometown and across the globe. Based in London, she has honed her expertise with leading practices, including Bjarke Ingels Group and Populous. Her work has encompassed innovative stadium developments, large-scale commercial projects, and the revitalisation of iconic landmarks.
A graduate of the Architectural Association in London, Isabelle brings a blend of innovative design sensibility and technical precision to every project. Her diverse experience has equipped her to tackle complex challenges with a balance of vision and practicality.
Now a member of the Rigby & Rigby team, Isabelle’s collaborative spirit and forward-thinking approach drive her commitment to creating architecture that stands the test of time, delivering meaningful, impactful spaces that resonate with clients and communities alike.
Miguel is an architect with more than 15 years of experience who has worked in some of the most prestigious design offices in the UK and since then has been involved in a diverse range of projects, from commercial, to residential and hospitality. He graduated from the Ricardo Palma University in Peru and later obtained a master’s degree in Architecture and Urbanism from the Architectural Association in London.
Miguel’s body of work spans from delivering private residential projects, under the umbrella of Studio Coesa in London, to the design of much larger commercial buildings under firms such as Zaha Hadid Architects and then Heatherwick Studio. At these two firms, as Lead Designer and Project Manager, Miguel was instrumental in the development of landmark buildings such as the Google headquarters in USA and the UK, the Eden Residential Tower in Singapore, and the Morpheus Hotel in Macau. During such ventures, he also collaborated with influential firms such as BIG, Gensler, KPF and BDP.
Miguel’s work experience has equipped him with a strong conceptual and technical skillset, essential for conveying ideas to clients and collaborators and ensuring that concepts could come to fruition. During his time at the Morpheus Hotel project, he conceived the vision and style for its luxury interiors and coordinated the Cat A/B fit-out of the public spaces. During the Google experience, Miguel led the space planning coordination and delivered the look-and-feel design of its main entrances and public exhibition areas. Miguel’s more recent focus turned to residential design, and as part of his role in Studio Coesa, he delivered residential projects across all RIBA stages, this time with a greater emphasis on details, interior design, and energy efficiency.
Now, at Rigby & Rigby, Miguel is to pursue this direction and to focus on exciting architecture across the globe.
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