LONDON – October 12, 2026 -- Chris Graham, founder of London-based real estate consultancy Graham Associates, has won the Industry Icon award at the inaugural Global Branded Residence Awards, decided by public vote.
Award honours lasting contribution to branded residences sector
The Industry Icon category recognises an individual whose work has shaped the branded residences sector, influenced its development and raised industry standards. Graham's win reflects two decades in luxury real estate and his role in the sector's growth.
Graham authored two of the sector's leading reports
Graham founded Graham Associates, a real estate marketing consultancy, in 2008. He is the author of 'Branded Residences: An Overview', now in its 6th edition, and 'The Branded Residences Compendium', a listing of more than 250 brands active in the market. He is also a regular industry commentator and speaker.
Four finalists were selected from the nominations
The judging panel selected four other finalists from a comprehensive list of nominations:
- Sonia Cheng, CEO of Rosewood Hotel Group
- John Hitchcox, founder of YOO
- Dean Main, founder of Rhodium
- Kevin Wash of VOS Business Consultants
Almost 200 entries competed across the 2026 categories
The awards drew almost 200 entries from around the world. Categories spanned regional markets, design, technology, sales and marketing, industry contribution and the World's Best Branded Residence. Eloise Hanson, editor of awards organiser Boutique Hotel News, chaired the judging panel. It included voices from branded residences, luxury hospitality, real estate, investment, brand strategy, communications and experience design.
Hanson hosted the online ceremony with Piers Brown, CEO of International Hospitality Media.