Sara Batterjee, Founder, Focal Building Solutions
“Some people look for a beautiful place; others make a beautiful place.” This quote encapsulates the essence of interior designers, the unsung heroes who wield their creativity to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary havens. These visionaries transcend mere decoration, infusing life and character into every nook and cranny. Imagine a blank canvas awaiting the stroke of a brush. For designers, it’s the thrill of crafting a narrative that truly sets their souls on fire. Each carefully curated colour palette and meticulously chosen piece of furniture breathes life into spaces, turning mere rooms into sanctuaries of style and comfort. It’s about aesthetics and storytelling. Every space has a tale to tell, and it’s the designer’s job to bring it to life. With their expert eye and keen attention to detail, they weave together elements that look good and resonate with meaning. Sara Batterjee, one such visionary, is the driving force behind Focal Building Solutions, transforming spaces into timeless works of art.
Embark on a captivating journey with Sara Batterjee, the luminary behind Focal Building Solutions. Armed with her interior design degree from Dar Al-Hekmah Jeddah, Sara stepped into the bustling cityscape of Dubai during the construction boom of 2004–2007. Surrounded by towering architectural marvels, she immersed herself in a world of endless creativity. While pursuing a master’s degree in science in “ Environmental design of buildings” and sustainable design, Sara felt the pulse of innovation coursing through her veins. Despite tempting offers abroad, her heart pulled her back to Jeddah in 2007, where she planted the seeds of her own design empire. Rather than buildings, the story is about the human spirit, the drive to create, innovate, and shape meaningful environments. With every project, she infuses her designs with soul, bridging the gap between space and the human experience. As a pioneering female leader in the male-dominated construction industry, Sara has broken barriers and set new standards. Her contributions have significantly advanced the industry in Saudi Arabia. Join us as we celebrate Sara’s pioneering spirit, leaving an indelible mark on the world, one masterpiece at a time.
The Genesis of a Visionary
Sara Batterjee’s illustrious 17 year career in the interior design and fitout industry has been nothing short of transformative. When she began, the landscape was still in its infancy. Clients often struggled to differentiate between architects, interior designers, and stylists, as well as the distinctions between general contractors and fit-out contractors. This confusion was more than just a minor inconvenience, it was a major obstacle to smooth project execution. Sara and her peers recognized this challenge and took it upon themselves to educate clients, ensuring that projects could proceed without a hitch. But the challenges didn’t end there. The industry was also plagued by a lack of foundational infrastructure. There were few networking opportunities, exhibitions, forums, supplier databases, or marketing channels. This scarcity made it difficult for professionals like Sara to connect, showcase their work, and access crucial resources for business development.
To make matters worse, there was no formal licensing or government recognition for interior design. This gap was a significant hurdle that Sara confronted head-on. In 2008, she played a pivotal role as a founding member of the Interior Design Chapter within the Saudi Council of Engineers. Alongside a dedicated group of designers, she fought tirelessly for the formal recognition of the field and the establishment of market regulations and standards. Their work aimed to provide a solid legal framework that would validate and professionalise the practice of interior design. Her commitment extended beyond merely overcoming these obstacles. It was about laying the groundwork for future generations. “We had to pave the way for future generations,” Sara reflects. Thanks to her leadership and relentless dedication, she has not merely set new industry standards but also emerged as a true pioneer in Saudi Arabia’s evolving design world.
Leading with purpose
Sara Batterjee’s leadership philosophy stands on three essential pillars: teamwork, emotional intelligence, and proactivity. These values aren’t just buzzwords for Sara; they’re the heartbeat of her approach to managing teams, engaging with clients, and steering projects at Focal Building Solutions (FBS). Navigating the vibrant and multifaceted world of interior design requires more than just technical expertise; it demands seamless collaboration. Whether it’s managing projects, handling engineering challenges, or diving into creative design, each element relies on specialised skills. Sara understands this all too well. She believes that the secret ingredient to successful project execution is effective people management. Recognizing and valuing individual contributions isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a game-changer.
By offering tailored feedback and celebrating each team member’s unique input, she nurtures a culture where appreciation and mutual respect aren’t just the norm but the driving force behind the team’s success. The approach goes beyond mere recognition. She’s all about rolling up her sleeves and diving into the nitty-gritty of personal development and goal-setting. By aligning individual growth with FBS’s grand vision, she ensures that everyone is on the same page and working towards a shared goal. This strategy doesn’t just boost personal growth; it creates a sense of unity and purpose across the organisation. Since its founding in 2007 the firm has earned a stellar reputation as an internationally acclaimed interior design and fit out contractor. With offices in Riyadh, Jeddah and Cairo. and a dedicated team of over 70+ professionals, FBS is a force to be reckoned with in the industry.
Under the visionary leadership of Sara Batterjee, Focal Building Solutions has carved out a remarkable success story, marked by a string of prestigious awards bestowed upon them by federations in London, Singapore, Dubai and Riyadh. These include the 2024 Saudi Commercial Interior Design Award for Best Restaurant Design of the Year and multiple Gold Awards from the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) for both Best Corporate Interior Concept and Best Corporate Interior Built. Sara’s dedication to excellence also earned FBS the 2023 Singapore Interior Design Award for Best Workspace Design Project. These accolades reflect not just FBS’s high standards but also Sara’s unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of design. The firm’s impressive client roster further attests to its industry prominence. High-profile clients like Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), Saudi Cruise, and Saudi Payments, alongside influential entities such as the Public Investment Fund (PIF), various government ministries, and multinational corporations, highlight FBS’s reputation and reach. FBS’s capability to manage projects from inception to completion—spanning design, furniture, and fitout—demonstrates its commitment to delivering exceptional results and underscores its leadership in the interior design and fitout sector.
Embracing Vision 2030
Looking ahead, Sara Batterjee is driven by a bold vision for Focal Building Solutions (FBS), aiming to transcend conventional success by seizing untapped opportunities and harnessing the company’s full potential. Her strategy aligns seamlessly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, an ambitious initiative launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to diversify the nation’s economy and advance various sectors, including construction and design. Vision 2030 focuses on reducing Saudi Arabia’s reliance on oil by fostering economic diversification and growth across multiple industries. It aims to enhance the quality of life through improved infrastructure, sustainable development, and innovative design practices. The initiative emphasises creating new job opportunities, boosting tourism, and modernising urban areas, all while driving the country towards a more vibrant and diversified economic future.
Sara’s decision to relocate FBS’s headquarters to Riyadh is a strategic manoeuvre reflecting her commitment to this transformative vision. By moving the head office and a substantial portion of her team to Riyadh, Sara places FBS at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s key projects and decision-making processes. This move is more than a logistical adjustment; it’s a proactive step to capitalise on the burgeoning opportunities in the capital, which is rapidly becoming the epicentre of the nation’s growth and development.
This strategic repositioning underscores Sara’s forward-thinking approach and her dedication to staying ahead of market trends. By aligning FBS with the goals of Vision 2030, she is expanding the company’s footprint and enhancing its role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s future. Sara’s leadership embodies the essence of Vision 2030’s objectives: innovation, strategic foresight, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. As FBS embarks on this new chapter in Riyadh, it stands poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s economic transformation. With Sara Batterjee at the helm, FBS is ready to thrive in Saudi Arabia’s evolving business landscape and is set to drive the realisation of Vision 2030, contributing to a positive and far-reaching transformation across the nation.
Bridging the Balance
Sara Batterjee, like many of us, juggles the tightrope between professional demands and personal life with finesse. Running a thriving interior design consultancy comes with its share of challenges, but for Sara, achieving a healthy work-life balance is not just a necessity—it’s an art form. “Success isn’t just about climbing the career ladder; it’s about how you nurture every facet of your life,” she often says. Boundaries are masterfully carved out, carving out dedicated hours for work while also reserving quality time for family, hobbies, and self-care. Her approach to time management is nothing short of strategic. By prioritising tasks, delegating when needed, and steering clear of overcommitment, she keeps stress at bay and productivity at its peak.
Believing that quality always trumps quantity, Sara focuses on meaningful connections and impactful projects, ensuring her time is spent where it truly counts. Flexibility and adaptability are her watchwords, recognizing that life’s unpredictable twists and turns require a recalibration of priorities. When work demands a little extra attention, she’s quick to rebalance, making space for her well-being as soon as the dust settles. Self-care is non-negotiable for Sara. Whether she’s hitting the gym, performing spiritual practices or indulging in her favourite hobbies, she knows that investing in her well-being is crucial for long-term success. “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” she reminds herself and her team. Success, in her view, is intricately linked to the goals she sets. For her, it’s all about clarity of vision, defining her long-term objectives, and charting a clear course. She uses SMART goals to steer the actions and track progress, ensuring her milestones are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
Sara also embraces continuous improvement. Success is a journey, not a destination, and she’s constantly evaluating and adjusting her strategies. Celebrating milestones, no matter how small, fuels her motivation and reaffirms her commitment. And while she remains adaptable, ready to pivot as circumstances change, her proactive approach to goal-setting remains a cornerstone of her path to success. As Focal Building Solutions (FBS) strides towards new horizons, Sara’s principles of balance and goal-setting illuminate the company’s path. With a strategic move to Riyadh, FBS is expanding its footprint and positioning itself at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s evolving business domain. Through a commitment to Vision 2030, Sara and FBS are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future. Their journey, marked by innovation and strategic foresight, reflects a blend of personal growth and professional excellence, setting a benchmark for others to follow.
Sage Advice for Aspiring Design Entrepreneurs
Sara’s journey through the world of commercial interior design consultancy and fitout is a treasure trove of wisdom for those embarking on their own entrepreneurial adventure. Her insights are lessons and actionable strategies that can guide aspiring entrepreneurs to success. Success in interior design hinges on more than having a keen eye for aesthetics; it’s about building a robust team. Sara emphasises that teamwork is the bedrock of any thriving consultancy. “Your team is your greatest asset,” she asserts. “Invest in them, empower them, and watch your business flourish.” Hiring people who not only possess the right skills but also share your vision and values is crucial. Creating a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member feels empowered can turn individual efforts into collective triumphs.
Financial precision is another cornerstone of success. In an industry driven by services, getting financial planning right from the start is crucial. Sara advises entrepreneurs to ensure that their financial projections are thorough, accounting for all expenses and potential revenue streams. Effective financial management is more than a balancing act; it’s about laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and long-term success. Persistence is key in this rollercoaster of a field. Building a service providing business is rarely smooth sailing. Sara’s experience underscores the importance of resilience. “Every setback is a setup for a comeback,” she states. Be ready to face challenges head-on and stay focused on the goals, even when the journey gets tough. Dedication and determination will be the greatest allies.
Continuous learning is essential. Every project offers a lesson. Sara advocates for reflecting on each project’s successes and challenges and using these experiences to fuel personal and professional growth. By fostering a culture of ongoing learning and adaptation, one ensures that both the individual and the team stay ahead of the curve in a dynamic industry. In terms of practical achievements, Focal Building Solutions stands as a testament to these principles. The company now handles high-end projects for some of Saudi Arabia’s largest clients, showcasing its ability to deliver exceptional results. With offices in Cairo, Jeddah, and Riyadh and a workforce that has doubled in the past year to nearly 100 employees, FBS is a shining example of what’s possible with a strategic vision and a commitment to excellence.
In closing, following Sara Batterjee’s sage advice can set aspiring entrepreneurs on a path to not just achieving success but making a lasting impact in the world of commercial interior design. By focusing on teamwork, financial management, persistence, and continuous learning, you can build a business that not only meets but exceeds expectations, all while contributing positively to the industry and beyond.