Fit-Out Powerlist 2022 – DESIGNSMITH, Ranks 16th

Designsmith, founded in 1988, is a turnkey Design & Build Contractor that provides end-to-end services ranging from complete construction and civil works to bespoke joinery and furniture. They describe themselves as a 34-year-old start-up, combining the zeal of a young firm with extensive industry experience. Located in Al Quoz, the firm offers a huge manufacturing facility spread across 70,000 sq.ft spans 70,000sqft and is equipped with cutting-edge machinery and technology. They are able to cater to projects in the luxury segment across the UAE with their 450+ strong team.

The company is led by two brothers who head the design and build divisions. They have made great strides in the last five years, establishing their legacy with timely builds and exceptional qualities. While Dhaval Sanganee, the CEO, oversees the build operations, Mihir Sanganee is responsible for the firm’s design deliverables. This has made it possible for clients to have a single point of contact from start to finish, making them one of the few one-stop solutions for large corporates and F&B industry. Designsmith’s notable projects include Raclette & Grand Beirut for MBT Group, Three by Eva in Al Wasl, amongst others for F&B industry. Their portfolio also includes the broadcasting studio and newsroom for Khaleej Times, the UAE’s largest English daily.

“We see the entire fit-out industry flocking to Saudi Arabia in search of greener pastures, but we’ve found a niche for ourselves in the UAE market and want to expand further locally. There is no dearth of opportunities in the UAE, in fact this is giving us the advantage of being focussed towards developing further and being more quality-specific,” explains Dhaval Sanganee, CEO of Designsmith.

In 2022, the company is expanding its capabilities by signing some of the most luxurious residential projects in Dubai Hills and Emirates Hills, totalling over 200,000sqft. In addition, some new food and beverage brands are entering the market in prominent locations such as Dubai Mall, Downtown, and Dubai Hills Mall.

They’ve also partnered with a few design studios to become their manufacturing and fit-out partners, al- lowing for great synergy in a design-led fit-out practice to achieve the desired result. The company is also upgrading its systems by investing in a bespoke technology platform that will provide clients with access to everything from design and estimation to snagging and handover. This will enable seamless stakeholder management and on-time delivery. This is amongst the first of its kind in the region to support clients and consultants alike.