Asteco launches Buy Dubai
Interior fit-out company to source 80% of products from local suppliers, supporting UAE businesses and giving customers more control over quality and delivery times
Leading property management company Asteco has launched its exclusive furnishing subdivision, Buy Dubai, which is supporting the UAE economy by sourcing 80% of products from local manufacturers.
APM Design and Furnishing Department specialises in space planning, fit-out and project management for hotel and private apartments, transforming an empty shell into a vibrant and cosy living area with bespoke furniture and accessories, in just four weeks rather than the three to four month wait for furnishings bought overseas.
“Asteco was founded in Dubai and as such we believe in supporting the community that has enabled us to build a successful business. It can often be tempting to buy abroad but when shipping and import taxes are taken into consideration the savings are not always as great as they first appear. Supporting local suppliers, who can find it difficult competing in a crowded marketplace, also enables us to better manage the standard of all products to ensure customers receive a quality service synonymous with the Asteco brand,” said Kerrin Matthey, Head of Design Furnishing at Asteco.
Clients can choose from a number of themes, including contemporary and Balinese, as well as colours and price points for their apartment. Asteco Property Management will then source products, whether they are sofas, handmade rugs, mirrors or soft furnishings and fit them in the property ready for owners, or tenants, to move in.
The packages, which offer average delivery times of four weeks rather than 3-4 months if furniture is bought from overseas firms, can also add lasting value to properties. They are offered in various markets across the Middle East, including Abu Dhabi and Qatar, in addition to Dubai.
“Many items can be locally sourced, including furniture, table wear, mirrors and artwork and clients are amazed when we tell them their furnishing is manufactured in Dubai and timeline for delivery is about one month. But more than this, it allows us to easily check on the process, or send things back in the rare cases they do not meet our standards,” said Matthey.
“In these challenging times many designers look beyond Dubai for a cheap quick fix but finding the cheapest solution can be a false economy as in most cases quality and longevity are compromised. By using locally skilled tradesman and home grown supplies, we benefit when it comes to delivery schedules and quality control,” Matthey added.
The company has already successfully fitted out a number of commercial and high-end properties, including signature villas for the Manchester United team on Palm Jumeirah, whose furniture was produced by Dubai-based joiners. They have also secured contracts for the Sama Tower show apartments and Y Tower in Abu Dhabi.
Photo caption 1: A Buy Dubai furnished apartment in the Oceana complex on Palm Jumeirah.
Photo caption 2: An apartment in Sama Tower fitted out by Buy Dubai
About Asteco
Asteco, a major regional and international real estate services firm and the largest property services company in the United Arab Emirates, was founded in Dubai in 1985. Asteco offers independent market analysis, design development consultancy and valuation services, sales and leasing services, as well as asset and property management services.