Lakeland Verandahs makes a splash in Dubai

A North West decking specialist is eyeing a £1 million Middle East opportunity after completing a high-profile project at one of Dubai’s most exclusive venues.

Preston-based Lakeland Verandahs installed 800m² of its ‘Solidek’ product at Aura Skypool, the world’s highest 360° infinity pool. 

The project, completed in just three months by a team of UK fitters led by father and son Russell and Sam Milburn, included developing a bespoke ‘Aura’ colour to complement the luxury surroundings.

Russell, who founded the company in 2008, said: “Hollow wood composite deck boards don’t doesn’t usually fare well in a Middle Eastern climate, typically only lasting twelve months. 

“This is why we believe there is such a big opportunity for our Solidek offer, which is a premium, solid capped composite and a lot more robust.

“What we really needed was a high-profile installation and they don’t come much bigger than the Aura Skypool, one of Dubai’s most visited locations and 48 storeys from the ground.”

Sam added: “The timings had to be just right to fit in with Aura’s extremely tight events calendar and we even had to overcome some major issues with sea freight, instead switching to transporting 24 tonnes of decking by air.

“The hours of planning and the late nights were all worth it and we are justifiably proud to have our Solidek product fitted and performing very well at one the most ‘instagrammable’ locations in the world. 

“We’re so confident in the quality and robustness of the product that we have given a 25-year warranty.”

Following the success, the firm, which employs 40 people across its operations in Preston and Scotland, is set to complete 12 Middle Eastern projects by mid-2025, marking its first international expansion. 

With UK sales reaching £6 million last year, Lakeland is now securing deals with hotels, architects and villa owners.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →