The Sandwash

Project Overview

SpaceForge designed and built the interior fit-out for The Sandwash , a cultural and hospitality venue in Al Quoz, Dubai, housed inside a former sand-washing plant originally founded in 1990. The project required converting raw industrial warehouse space into a flexible, multi-configuration venue capable of hosting art exhibitions, live events, food experiences, and retail pop-ups, all while preserving the industrial character that gives the space its identity. The design leans into the building's origins rather than concealing them. Raw concrete ceilings, polished concrete floors, and exposed structural elements are paired with warm grey render walls, dark timber panelling, and gallery-grade track lighting to create a space that shifts between industrial edge and refined hospitality depending on the configuration. A live show kitchen was integrated as a central feature, designed to be fully operational for catered events while reading as part of the venue's architecture when not in use. Guest areas, corridors, and lounge spaces were fitted with bespoke joinery including full-height flush-panel cabinetry, tall pivot doors connecting interconnected rooms, and custom furniture throughout. En-suite bathrooms feature dark stone finishes with moody, low-level lighting. The fit-out was managed end-to-end by SpaceForge, from concept development and space planning through to joinery manufacturing at our Al Quoz facility and on-site installation. The Sandwash now operates as a 33-warehouse creative community spanning 5,000 to 20,000 sq ft units across the precinct, with SpaceForge's design-and-build work setting the tone for the venue's hospitality and event spaces.