Design Build Manage
Safari-style cabin with canvas roof on a timber deck in forest at Pax Manor
Integrated Development Solutions

Design Build Manage

One partner from first concept to long-term operation, for developers of resorts, hotels, retail complexes and office parks.

Integrated Development Solutions

Design · Build · Manage

Model
Single point of accountability, concept to operations
Sectors
Resorts, hotels, retail complexes, office parks
Quality
ISO 9001:2015 registered · Cert. No. KY1358
Group
Part of ISM Africa Group

ISM Engineering is a full-service partner for developers seeking a streamlined approach to delivering high-performance, guest-centric properties.

Through our Design · Build · Manage framework, we provide comprehensive solutions that span the entire project life cycle, from initial concept to long-term operations.

Whether you're developing a luxury resort, retail complex or office park, we ensure precision, sustainability and strategic value at every stage.

FastAffordableEcoISO 9001:2015Best Modular Housing Solutions Provider 2024
The Framework

Three stages. One partner.

Engage us for a single stage or the full life cycle. Either way, design decisions are made with construction and operations in mind.

01 — Design

Design

Strategic vision meets architectural excellence.

We translate your business objectives and brand identity into innovative, functional and future-proof designs. Our multidisciplinary design team integrates sustainability, regulatory compliance and operational efficiency into every detail, ensuring your development is both aspirational and practical.

Aerial render of A-frame cabins arranged around landscaped courtyards
Karen Hotel · design render
  1. Our design services include
  2. Master planning and feasibility studies
  3. Architectural and interior design
  4. MEP and structural engineering
  5. Interior design and fit-out
  6. Clean technology and energy system integration
  7. Client experience and flow optimisation
  8. Compliance with global international standards
02 — Build

Build

Precision construction with performance in mind.

We execute construction with meticulous attention to time, cost and quality. As a single point of accountability, we manage all project elements, from procurement and permits to subcontractor coordination and risk mitigation. The result: on-time delivery, within budget, with no compromise on finish or functionality.

Steel roof structure under construction beside a lake
Steel superstructure on site
  1. Our build capabilities include
  2. Construction and site supervision
  3. Green materials sourcing and implementation
  4. Budget and schedule management
  5. LEED / EDGE-ready execution strategies
  6. Health, safety and quality assurance
  7. Turnkey project delivery
03 — Manage

Manage

End-to-end operations and commercial performance management.

We provide full-scope operational management designed to transform your hotel from a developed asset into a high-performing business. Our Manage offering ensures seamless day-to-day operations, strong market presence and sustained profitability, with a focus on exceptional client experiences, brand integrity and commercial outcomes.

Pax Manor guest room with four-poster bed and forest views
Pax Manor · guest room
  1. Our core capabilities include
  2. Commercial strategy & guest acquisitionRevenue management, digital marketing, OTA/GDS distribution and direct booking optimisation.
  3. Front & back-of-house operationsFacilities and vendor oversight.
  4. Human capital & trainingRecruitment, onboarding, service excellence training and ongoing performance management.
  5. Financial stewardshipBudgeting, P&L management, forecasting and investor reporting.
  6. Reputation & experience managementClient satisfaction analytics, feedback systems and brand reputation strategy.
Why Design · Build · Manage

Fewer handovers. Clearer accountability. Better returns.

ACCOUNTABILITY

One point of contact

Procurement, permits, subcontractors and risk managed by a single team.

FAST

On-time delivery

Schedules planned from design through to opening day.

AFFORDABLE

Within budget

Budget and schedule management at every stage, with no compromise on finish.

ECO

LEED / EDGE-ready

Green materials, clean technology and energy systems built in.

COMPLIANCE

Standards met

Regulatory approvals, EIAs and international standards handled for you.

PERFORMANCE

Built to operate

Revenue, operations and guest experience planned before the first brick.

Our Recent Projects

Designed, built and positioned to perform.

Cabin on a timber deck lit at dusk in forest
Muthaiga, Nairobi

Pax Manor

Safari-style luxury cabins for the boutique Pax House Hotel, set within a pristine forest in central Nairobi. We delivered rooms to five-star standard, returned a cleared plot to lush forest and advised on positioning the hotel for its ideal clientele.

Design · Build · Positioning
View project →
Timber gatehouse entrance to Karen Country Lodge
Karen, Nairobi

Karen Hotel, Cottages & Conference Facilities

A five-star resort with one- and two-bedroom A-frame cabins for extended stays. ISM managed regulatory approvals including the EIA, coordinated the architects on site layout, engineered storm drainage and secured a qualified operator.

Approvals · Design coordination · Operator
View project →
Two-storey container mall with Zaria Court signage
Kigali, Rwanda

Zaria Court

East Africa's first container-based shopping mall, with retail shops, radio and podcast studios and elevated viewing platforms over the basketball arena. Built from repurposed shipping containers on an accelerated six-month schedule.

Design · Build
Black A-frame house with balcony and skylights
Naivasha

Naivasha Retreat

Nine A-frame houses and a central clubhouse positioned for views of Lake Naivasha, designed to deliver an exceptional guest experience with a targeted return on investment within five years.

Development oversight · Revenue advisory
Render of a lodge with a sweeping roof and timber deck
Maasai Mara

Mara Resort

A high-standard safari camp that moves beyond traditional tents, designed to maximise views of the Mara River. ISM managed planning, regulatory compliance and design coordination to international hospitality standards.

Planning · Compliance · Design
Hotel lounge with chandeliers and armchairs
Lang'ata, Nairobi

Tamarind Tree Hotel

Interior design for a modern business hotel: functional, contemporary spaces with durable, elegant finishes and flexible meeting and lounge areas for short- and long-stay travellers.

Interior design
Garden terrace with umbrellas and dining tables
Karen, Nairobi

Axa Bar & Grill

A high-end dining destination with a versatile hospitality tent for up to 250 guests and a fully equipped bar and restaurant. ISM coordinated design and construction, integrating service areas for daily trade and large events.

Design · Construction coordination
Container pods in a garden under mature trees
Karen, Nairobi

The Karen Forest Retreat

Design-forward container pod accommodation for guests seeking a unique, modern stay, with premium finishes and bespoke interior detailing within easy reach of Nairobi's key attractions.

Design · Build
Single-storey white building with blue trim and solar panels
Dongo Kundu, Mombasa

TOA

A steel superstructure building delivered with offices, a boardroom and a staff canteen, from structural steel through to finished interiors.

Build
View project →
Make an Enquiry

Start a project consultation.

Tell us about your site, the development you have in mind and which stages you need us for.

WhatsApp
+254 797 968 817
Email
info@ismengineering.com
Office
Aspire Centre, 4th Floor, Waiyaki Way, Westlands
Hours
Mon–Fri · 8am – 9pm
ISM EngineeringWe Design · We Build · We Manage
© 2026 ISM Engineering · +254 797 968 817
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