Global Branded Residences (GBR) has officially launched in Asia Pacific in response to the region’s unprecedented growth trajectory that is reshaping the global luxury real estate landscape. The expansion marks a strategic commitment to supporting developers and operators in APAC as the region prepares to equal North America as the world’s largest branded residences market for the first time.
Asia Pacific: Driving Global Surge in Branded Residences
With over 900 branded residences projects launching globally in the next 5–6 years—more than doubling the existing market of 780-plus projects worldwide—Asia Pacific is driving this explosive growth. The region now ranks as the second largest market globally for completed branded residential developments and holds the second largest pipeline position, according to GBR data.
Thailand, Vietnam, and India Lead the Charge
Thailand, Vietnam, and India are leading this charge, while cities like Bangkok, Phuket, Bali, Hoi An, and Kuala Lumpur are emerging as key hotspots where international brands are establishing some of their most ambitious residential projects. Thailand alone has secured two positions in the global top 10 cities, with Phuket ranking 5th and Bangkok 7th worldwide in terms of completed and pipeline projects.
Vietnam and Phuket See Exponential Growth
Vietnam exemplifies the region’s remarkable rise, transforming from 15 completed projects to 51 currently in development—securing the top spot in APAC for branded residential projects in the pipeline. Phuket is now overtaking Bangkok in pipeline projects—a shift that reflects how resort locations globally can command up to 68% sales premiums.
Branded Residences Becoming Standard in Luxury Developments
The integration of residential components is now becoming the new standard, with 70% of luxury hotel deals now including branded residences—underscoring the sector’s evolution from niche luxury product to mainstream development strategy.
GBR’s Legacy and Leadership in the Branded Residences Sector
GBR brings a proven global track record, having advised on over 150 branded residential projects across 40+ countries. Led by Founder Riyan Itani—one of the world’s foremost experts in the sector—GBR has advised on developments for marquee brands including Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, One&Only, Rosewood, and Ritz-Carlton, among others. Its data-driven approach and deep operator relationships have earned GBR a reputation as the go-to advisor for developers, investors, and landowners creating branded residential ventures.
Senior Appointment Strengthens GBR’s Regional Presence
The launch is further marked by the senior appointment of Anna Carver as Business Development and Brand Selection and Negotiation Manager for the region. Based in Singapore, Anna will work closely with developers, hotel groups, and non-hotel brands in APAC to guide projects from conception through execution.
Expert Commentary from GBR Leaders
“The growth of branded residences in APAC is both rapid and sustained,” said Riyan Itani. “What took 100 years to build globally is now being matched in just five. Asia Pacific is at the forefront of this wave, and GBR’s expansion ensures we’re on the ground, delivering the strategic insight our partners need to succeed.” “I’m thrilled to join the experienced GBR team at such a pivotal moment for the Asia Pacific branded residences market,” said Anna Carver. “The depth of expertise and proven track record that GBR brings to the region is unmatched, and I’m excited to leverage this experience to help our APAC partners capitalise on the extraordinary opportunities ahead. We’re seeing developers increasingly recognise the value that hotel and lifestyle brands bring to residential developments, and our on-ground presence allows us to guide them through every step of the process.”
