Influential restaurant designer Philip Harrison steps down after almost 50 years in the industry

Philip Harrison has helped shape how branded restaurants look and feel over the past four decades
Philip Harrison has helped shape how branded restaurants look and feel over the past four decades (©Harrison)

Philip Harrison is stepping back from day-to-day operations at his hospitality design firm Harrison after 37 years at the helm.

Harrison has been designing restaurants for nearly 50 years and has played a key role in shaping how venue’s look and feel.

His Harrison consultancy has worked with some of the biggest names in the branded sector including Pizza Hut, Bella Italia, YO!, TGI Fridays, Vapiano and Ole & Steen.

Its current client list includes Gordon Ramsay North America, Marugame Udon, Nando’s, Fogo de Chão, Hilton and Harrods.

A specialist in architecture, interior design and branding, Harrison has helped drive the boom in branded restaurant formats over the past four decades.

Reflecting on the sector’s evolution, he notes its remarkable growth in both scale and economic impact.

“The hospitality sector, in all its guises, has grown exponentially during this period to become a major revenue generator in the UK economy,” he says. “According to UK Hospitality data, it now employs over 3.5 million people and generates revenues of around £93 billion.”

Philip founded Harrison in XXX and went on to guide the business for 37 years, evolving it from a single-service design agency into a multi-disciplinary consultancy operating internationally with offices in Birmingham, Dallas and Melbourne.

While stepping back from day-to-day responsibilities, Harrison will remain close to the business, supporting where he can, the next phase of the company’s growth as it expands into new markets and service areas.

Keith Anderson, CEO of Harrison, added: “Philip’s visionary leadership has defined not only our business but has also left an indelible mark on the wider hospitality industry. His ability to anticipate change, inspire teams and consistently deliver meaningful, commercially successful design has set the standard for our sector. We are immensely grateful for the legacy he has built.”

“As Harrison continues to grow its international footprint and broaden its service offering, the business remains firmly rooted in the principles Philip established - combining creativity with commercial insight to deliver enduring value for clients worldwide.”