Why High-End Finishes Save You Money: The True Cost of Cutting Corners in Dubai Interior Projects

Introduction: Why Dusk & Dune Doesn’t Do Cheap

At Dusk & Dune, we work with interior designers, architects and consultants who are tired of having to justify poor results to their clients, often the outcome of budget-first decisions made during the specification process. Our philosophy is simple: do it right the first time.

We don’t compete on price. We compete on quality, consistency and expertise. In a market where too many finishes fail due to poor application, unsuitable materials or shortcuts, Dusk & Dune provides long-term value by delivering specialist mineral finishes that are built to perform.

Whether it’s microcement, limewash, marmorino or textured decorative paints, everything we do is high quality, professionally applied, and designed to last with proper care.

“Cheap Now, Costly Later”: The Hidden Cost of Poor Finishes

It’s tempting to specify based on the lowest quote, especially when pressure comes from the client or developer to “value engineer.” But how many times have you returned to a project months later only to see discoloured walls, cracking microcement or inconsistent textures?

Dubai’s climate is unforgiving. Intense sun, humidity and temperature swings push materials to their limit. When finishes fail, the costs go far beyond reapplication; they affect project timelines, client relationships and the reputation of everyone involved.

“Avoid Rework in Construction”: A Wake-Up Call for Designers and Consultants

One of the biggest risks to any project is rework. And it’s almost always the result of poor surface preparation or unqualified applicators using the wrong product in the wrong place. When things go wrong, the finish is often blamed, but the real issue is how it was specified and installed.

At Dusk & Dune, we work closely with main contractors to ensure surface preparation is done correctly. That might mean rejecting a slab that’s not dry enough or advising on appropriate primers and crack-bridging systems. You’re not just getting an installer, you’re dealing with someone who is likely one of the most informed specialists on mineral finishes in the UAE, particularly when it comes to microcement.

“Specify Durable Materials”: What Long-Term Value Actually Looks Like

Our materials are designed for performance, not just aesthetics. Our microcement is VOC-free, stain resistant, UV stable, and suitable for use on floors, walls, wet areas and even joinery. Our limewash and textured paints are sourced directly from Italy and formulated for the Middle Eastern climate.

But finishes are only as good as their application. That’s why every project is handled by our in-house team, trained to European standards.

When you specify Dusk & Dune, you benefit from:

• Specialist advice during the design and tender stage

• Correct technical detailing for durability

• Support with surface preparation and sequencing

• Finishes that look better for longer, with the right maintenance

• Fewer call backs, no need for rework, and peace of mind at handover

“Consultant-Approved Materials”: Proven Credentials

While we’re building our portfolio in the UAE, our experience is grounded in international excellence. We’ve worked with firms like Fosters + Partners and Overbury in the UK, and our microcement brand Topcret has been used globally in brands like W Hotel, Google, Lacoste, Hyatt, Mandarin Oriental, Jeep, Starbucks and Bang & Olufsen.

Our materials are fully documented and ISO certified, with safety and performance data available for every product. Whether you’re submitting to consultants, clients or contractors, we’re ready to support with technical documentation and samples.

“The Cost of Poor-Quality Finishes”: Real World Impact

When a limewash wall needs reapplying or a textured finish peels off, the cost is never just material. It’s labour, disruption and, most importantly, client confidence. Multiple times we have been called in to rescue failed installations where a lower quote won the job. The finish wasn’t the problem. The decision making was.

The Solution: Partner With Dusk & Dune From Day One

Bring us in at concept stage or early in design development. We’ll help ensure that your vision is

achievable, durable and correctly executed, without value-engineering the life out of it. We understand what you’re trying to achieve, and we help you protect it.

Let’s Future-Proof Your Finish

Whether you’re mid spec or reviewing options for an upcoming project, we’re here to guide you through the material selection process and ensure the execution lives up to the design intent.

👉 Contact Dusk & Dune to request samples or arrange a site meeting.