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

- Our design services include
- Master planning and feasibility studies
- Architectural and interior design
- MEP and structural engineering
- Interior design and fit-out
- Clean technology and energy system integration
- Client experience and flow optimisation
- Compliance with global international standards
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.

- Our build capabilities include
- Construction and site supervision
- Green materials sourcing and implementation
- Budget and schedule management
- LEED / EDGE-ready execution strategies
- Health, safety and quality assurance
- Turnkey project delivery
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.

- Our core capabilities include
- Commercial strategy & guest acquisitionRevenue management, digital marketing, OTA/GDS distribution and direct booking optimisation.
- Front & back-of-house operationsFacilities and vendor oversight.
- Human capital & trainingRecruitment, onboarding, service excellence training and ongoing performance management.
- Financial stewardshipBudgeting, P&L management, forecasting and investor reporting.
- Reputation & experience managementClient satisfaction analytics, feedback systems and brand reputation strategy.
Fewer handovers. Clearer accountability. Better returns.
One point of contact
Procurement, permits, subcontractors and risk managed by a single team.
On-time delivery
Schedules planned from design through to opening day.
Within budget
Budget and schedule management at every stage, with no compromise on finish.
LEED / EDGE-ready
Green materials, clean technology and energy systems built in.
Standards met
Regulatory approvals, EIAs and international standards handled for you.
Built to operate
Revenue, operations and guest experience planned before the first brick.
Designed, built and positioned to perform.

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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
TOA
A steel superstructure building delivered with offices, a boardroom and a staff canteen, from structural steel through to finished interiors.
BuildStart a project consultation.
Tell us about your site, the development you have in mind and which stages you need us for.
- +254 797 968 817
- info@ismengineering.com
- Office
- Aspire Centre, 4th Floor, Waiyaki Way, Westlands
- Hours
- Mon–Fri · 8am – 9pm