Summertown Interiors is proud to announce a major win at the Design Middle East Awards 2025. Our project for Schneider Electric, known as The NEST, received the Sustainable Project of the Year award. This recognition celebrates a workplace that blends smart technology, circular fit-out practices, and people-first design. This sustainable fit-out demonstrates how circular economy principles and wellness-focused design can transform commercial workspaces whilst achieving 93% waste diversion.
The award reinforces a message we have championed for years: Sustainable office design is not a luxury. It is the future of how we build, work, and thrive.
Key Achievement Highlights:
- 93% construction waste diverted from landfill
- 10,049 kg of materials recycled or reused
- Targeting LEED Platinum and WELL Certification
- Circular economy principles applied throughout
- Recognised at UAE’s leading design awards
The NEST is part of Schneider Electric’s Global Impact Buildings programme. Located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, the office brings together energy-efficient systems, digital lifecycle design, and innovative workplace planning.
Summertown Interiors was appointed as the preferred fit-out contractor, delivering a turnkey solution across two full floors. Working alongside JLL MENA and Gensler, we delivered a space that is high-performing, collaborative, and future-ready.
Project Scope
The scope included everything from bespoke joinery and furniture to advanced building systems:
- Custom joinery and furniture design
- Data centre installation
- Innovation Hub creation
- Advanced AV systems integration
- High-spec HVAC systems
- Smart access control and security
- Collaborative work zones and training facilities
This is a fit-out designed to lead by example, demonstrating what’s possible when sustainability meets innovation.
Explore the full project: Schneider Electric Circular Fit-Out Case Study
Built on Circular Economy Principles
What truly set this project apart was its commitment to waste reduction and circular thinking. From day one, the team mapped a strategy to track and reuse materials across the site.
The Results Were Exceptional
Total Construction Waste: 10,759 kg generated
Materials Recycled/Reused: 10,049 kg
Sent to Landfill: Only 1,810 kg
Waste Diversion Rate: 93%
How We Achieved 93% Waste Diversion
The reuse strategy included:
- HVAC systems – Existing units assessed, serviced, and reinstalled
- Aluminium and glass partitions – Dismantled carefully for reuse on-site
- AV equipment – Upgraded components integrated into new systems
- Furniture elements – Refurbished pieces incorporated into the design
- Materials repurposing – Items not used on-site redirected to other UAE projects
This approach goes beyond compliance. It reduces costs, lowers carbon impact, and supports the UAE’s national sustainability goals including the Net Zero 2050 strategy.
Read more about our Waste and Circularity Strategy
A Healthy Office People Want to Work In
Sustainability is not just about materials. It is also about how people experience a space. The NEST project prioritises wellbeing through biophilic design, natural finishes, and thoughtful zoning. Every corner of the office feels inviting, with greenery, soft lighting, and timber tones supporting calm and focus.
Wellbeing Features
Biophilic Design Elements:
- Living plants integrated throughout
- Natural timber finishes and textures
- Maximum daylight penetration
- Views to greenery where possible
Functional Spaces:
- Collaborative work zones for team interaction
- Dedicated training hub for skills development
- Modern AV-enabled townhalls and meeting rooms
- Quiet zones for focused work
- Smart access control and high-spec security systems
Environmental Quality:
- Low-VOC materials throughout
- Enhanced air filtration systems
- Acoustic treatments for sound comfort
- Thermal stability across all zones
It is not only energy efficient. It is also human-centred and flexible enough to support different ways of working, from deep focus to creative collaboration.
Check out our video to see how The NEST came to life and learn more about the project’s sustainable impact.
Targeting LEED Platinum and WELL Certification
The NEST is now on track to achieve LEED Platinum and WELL Certification, two of the highest global standards for environmental performance and human health in buildings.
Why These Certifications Matter
LEED Platinum (80+ points) represents exceptional environmental performance across:
- Energy efficiency
- Water conservation
- Material sustainability
- Indoor environmental quality
- Innovation in design
WELL Certification focuses on occupant health through:
- Air quality management
- Water quality
- Nourishment support
- Light optimization
- Fitness opportunities
- Comfort standards
- Mind and mental wellbeing
From low-emission materials to lighting and air quality control, every decision was made with these goals in mind. Summertown Interiors is supporting Schneider Electric throughout the certification journey to ensure the project meets every requirement.
If you’re considering sustainability for your next fit-out, try our LEED calculator to see the impact and potential return on your project by choosing LEED.
Our Commitment to Accessible Certification
We provide complimentary LEED Certified-level certification for all fit-out projects over 2,000 sqm. It is one of the ways we help clients achieve recognised sustainability outcomes without extra cost, removing a barrier that prevents many organisations from pursuing formal certification.
Learn about our Journey2030: 100% Sustainable Projects Goal
An Award That Sets a New Standard
The Design Middle East Awards 2025 took place at the W Hotel on The Palm, bringing together the region’s top names in architecture, interiors, and design. Winning Sustainable Project of the Year is not just an honour for our team. It is recognition of the strategy, collaboration, and detail behind this project.
This award reinforces the importance of partnership and planning in sustainable delivery. It also proves that environmental leadership can go hand in hand with innovation, technology, and aesthetic impact.
What this win represents:
- Recognition of circular economy leadership in UAE construction
- Validation of sustainable fit-out as commercially viable
- Proof that environmental goals enhance, rather than constrain, design quality
- Industry acknowledgment of collaborative delivery excellence
What It Means for Your Next Office Fit-Out
This project shows that high-performing, low-impact offices are not the future. They are already here, being built in Dubai and across the UAE by organisations who understand that sustainability drives business value.
Three Key Takeaways for Your Next Project
1. Plan for Material Reuse Before Fit-Out Begins
2. Align Stakeholders Around Sustainability Goals Early
3. Use Certifications Like LEED and WELL to Guide, Not Just Verify
The Business Case Is Clear
Sustainable fit-outs deliver:
- Lower operating costs through energy and water efficiency
- Higher employee satisfaction from improved air quality and comfort
- Stronger talent attraction as sustainability becomes a hiring factor
- Enhanced brand reputation through visible environmental leadership
- Future regulatory compliance as standards continue to tighten
- Increased asset value with certified buildings commanding premium rates
Sustainability is no longer just a checkbox. It is how you future-proof your business and create workplaces that attract and retain the best people.
Ready to Build a Sustainable Office?
Whether you’re planning a new office, considering a refurbishment, or exploring how to achieve LEED or WELL certification, Summertown Interiors can help you deliver a project that performs for both people and planet.
Our sustainable fit-out services include:
- Circular economy planning and waste reduction strategies
- LEED and WELL certification support (complimentary for projects >2,000 sqm)
- Biophilic design and wellbeing-focused interiors
- Energy-efficient MEP systems integration
- Material specification and sustainable sourcing
- Post-occupancy performance monitoring
