Meet Suncoast's General Manager, Rob Canning, a seasoned leader in the regional design industry. With a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for excellence and success, Rob brings a dynamic vision to Suncoast, whilst never resting on his pursuit for innovation and commitment to sustainability. Get to know one of the driving forces behind Suncoast with this interview with Rob.
Suncoast prides itself as the definitive store for outdoor furniture and accessories in the UAE. What sets you apart?
There are three key things that I think truly set us apart.
- We’re homegrown – As a brand that was born in the UAE, we are confident to say that our products are designed for the needs of the customers here and for the unique weather conditions of the region. Suncoast originated as a single warehouse supplying outdoor furniture and accessories to businesses earning the trust of the hospitality, real estate and commercial sectors, and partnering with industry giants such as Emaar, Aldar, Nakheel, Meeras, Mudon, Sheraton, and Waldorf Astoria, to name a few. As a retailer today, we are simply making our products with uncompromising quality accessible to consumers.
- We’re the only one in the market that offers three-year warranties on our products – Since Suncoast was founded in 2002, we really had a lot of time to harness the greatest possible knowledge and strength needed to succeed in the outdoor furniture category. That means today, our customers can have that peace of mind that the products that they are buying are a result of the research and development and on-ground experiences of the team on finding the best solutions available that withstand our climate and we’ve got a three-year warranty to back up that quality.
- We’re just getting started – Honestly, the reception since we made our products available in three stores and online has been phenomenal, and we are grateful for the trust of all our clients. We can only repay that with our commitment to continuous growth. We are bettering our design, products and services by listening directly to our clients and their evolving needs. We are looking for solutions that are more efficient, environment-friendly and can make the prices even more accessible without compromising on quality so more clients can enjoy our products. And we are opening more stores so we can be closer to more homes.
What is your favorite part about working with Suncoast?
As with any company, it wasn’t an easy path building our dream team especially for a niche industry, but we got here now and I have to say this is my favourite part about working with Suncoast. In every sense of the word, our group thinks globally, and acts locally. We share ambitious goals towards international competitiveness and recognition, but we have great respect for the nuances of dealing with a diverse market like the UAE, living in challenging weather conditions and leaving a positive footprint for people we deal with and ultimately, our planet.
What should be our top three considerations when designing our outdoor spaces?
- Functionality and Purpose:
- Define the primary purpose of your outdoor space. Is it a dining area, a lounge for relaxation, a garden oasis, or a multifunctional space? Understanding the intended use helps guide the layout and selection of furniture and accessories.
- Consider the activities you want to accommodate, such as dining, entertaining, gardening, or simply unwinding. Design the space to meet these specific needs, ensuring a practical and enjoyable outdoor experience.
- Climate and Weather Conditions:
- Take into account the climate and weather conditions of your location. In regions with extreme heat, like the UAE, choose materials and furnishings that can withstand high temperatures and prolonged sun exposure.
- Incorporate shade solutions such as umbrellas, pergolas, or awnings to provide relief from the sun. If your area experiences rain, consider water-resistant and quick-drying materials for furniture and invest in proper drainage solutions.
- I also always say this – cover your furniture. This will help protect it at times when you’re not using it and of course, as a result, it prolongs the life of your furniture.
- Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Design:
- Embrace sustainable design practices by selecting eco-friendly materials for furniture and accessories. Look for options made from recycled or responsibly sourced materials, such as FSC-certified wood or recycled metals.
- Optimize energy efficiency with the integration of LED lighting and consider solar-powered solutions. Incorporate greenery and plants to enhance the environmental impact positively.
By prioritizing functionality, considering climate conditions, and embracing sustainable design principles, you can create outdoor spaces that not only align with your lifestyle but also contribute to a greener and more environmentally conscious living environment.
What is your dream for Suncoast?
Our aim for Suncoast is international recognition and market dominance in the realm of outdoor lifestyle. We're committed to expanding globally by crafting unique outdoor experiences that transcend borders and cater to diverse preferences. Our path to global prominence hinges on quality, innovation, and a commitment to creating lasting impacts across continents.
Complete this sentence… an outdoor space is not complete without a…
Good company – whatever furniture you have or no matter how big your outdoor space is, I feel it’s best enjoyed with your loved ones and friends. In my case, it’s definitely with my beautiful family.
