Horton Interiors: Raising the bar for design and build excellence

The decision to offer comprehensive design and build support has been crucial to Horton Interior’s success. With design and build, one contractor is responsible for designing and building the project, as opposed to traditional fit-out, where different parties handle both aspects through a process of design, bid, and build.

Research in the US predicts that design and build will see an annual growth rate of 7.6 per cent between 2021 to 2025, with 34 per cent total growth in design and build construction spending. This integrated approach is also gaining popularity here in the UAE, where projects are becoming more complex. Having one point of contact improves accountability and reduces risk. It also offers better value alongside faster turnaround times.

Douglas Drummond, managing director, Horton Interiors, explains: “Many of our clients want to occupy their premises and start generating revenue as quickly as possible, so they don’t necessarily have the luxury or need to tender the two elements separately. Having skilled design, procurement, and construction management teams in-house means we can consider all aspects of a design to achieve superior results.”

“Generally, the demand for design and build comes from the commercial office sector; however, in the last 12 months, we have completed a university campus, fashion retail units, F&B outlets, gymnasiums, co-working spaces, and healthcare facilities. More and more businesses are recognising the benefits of integrated design and construction.” This recognition has seen Horton Interiors expand its influence, develop lasting stakeholder relationships, and secure repeat business mainly through word of mouth.

Horton Interiors’ capabilities are underpinned by several key pillars: technology, sustainability, creativity, and well-being. From a technology perspective, the team believes in maximising digital advances to streamline their operations and deliver added value for clients.

It has adopted Procore, a cloud-based construction management software that centralises tools and solutions for various stages of construction projects, connecting all stakeholders, from architects to contractors, to consolidate and manage projects. The real-time data and accessibility minimise costly risks and delays, ultimately speeding up delivery without compromising quality. In addition, Horton Interiors uses drone technology for 3D scanning as-built information and project filming.

Sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity and the project teams integrate sustainable practices as holistically as possible throughout the project lifecycle. The design team is LEED, WELL, or Estidama certified, and the firm complies with the environmental management standards gaining an ISO 14001 certification.

One of its recent projects Raban Al Safina demonstrates Horton Interiors’ ability to blend exceptional aesthetics with eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions at every step. From energy-saving lighting systems to using sustainably sourced materials, the design had a minimal environmental impact while maximising user comfort and well-being.

Website: https://hortoninteriors.com/