CIPS and Creative Lab Interiors host industry event on sustainable interior fit-out procurement

On September 27, the JW Marriott Marina in Dubai hosted an event organized by the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) in partnership with Creative Lab Interiors and Contracting LLC. The gathering brought together industry professionals and dignitaries to discuss emerging trends and best practices in interior fit-out procurement.

A highlight of the event was a panel discussion titled “The Future of Interior Fit-Out Procurement: Trends and Best Practices.” The panel featured distinguished speakers including Chirag Naik, Associate Design Director at Wanders Werner Falasi Consulting Architects; Toni Issa, Managing Director – Middle East at CBRE; Chashmi Soni, Co-Founder and Design Director of Creative Lab Interiors; and Ayomiku Williams, Director of Story and Experience at Expo City Dubai. Moderated by Deepika Rastogi, the discussion focused on the crucial role of sustainable procurement in mitigating the environmental impact of the construction sector, which contributes nearly 38 percent of global CO2 emissions.

As sustainability becomes a critical focus for the rapidly evolving construction industry, the event provided a platform for key professionals and thought leaders to explore innovative procurement strategies centered on environmental responsibility. One major takeaway was the need to rethink material selection in interior fit-outs. Choosing responsibly sourced materials such as sustainable wood and low-VOC paints can significantly reduce waste while promoting healthier indoor environments.

Nirav Shah, Founder and Managing Director of Creative Lab Interiors & Contracting LLC, emphasized that the future of procurement lies in fully integrating sustainability into every project phase. “We are committed to selecting sustainable materials and designing energy-efficient spaces that not only meet client needs but also benefit the environment. Educating clients about these options fosters trust and encourages them to adopt green solutions,” Shah stated.

Shah highlighted that sustainable procurement extends beyond climate-related concerns to include ethical, green, and social considerations—essential components for a truly sustainable strategy that challenges procurement leaders to drive change within the industry. He stressed the importance of ethical workforce practices, prioritizing employee well-being, and creating a positive work environment. This approach strengthens organizational integrity and builds trust with clients, ultimately leading to improved project outcomes and long-term success.

Energy efficiency also emerged as a critical factor in sustainable procurement. Attendees gained insights into maximizing natural light, implementing efficient HVAC systems, and incorporating smart energy solutions to reduce operational costs and lower a project’s carbon footprint.

Shah concluded by underscoring the significance of partnering with subcontractors who share a commitment to sustainability. He recommended conducting regular audits and setting clear standards to ensure that all stakeholders in the supply chain align with sustainability goals, making the entire procurement process more responsible and effective.

The event emphasized the importance of agility and innovation in procurement practices as the UAE’s construction and interior design industries continue to evolve, showcasing the potential for meaningful change in the sector.