How to Commission a Bespoke Sculpture in Dubai: The 1-OPH Process, Step by Step

Updated 24 October 2026 · Husain Vajihi, founder of 1-OPH

Short answer: Commissioning a bespoke sculpture in Dubai runs in five stages: a first conversation about the space, design and proposal, approval with a 50% advance, fabrication with progress updates, then delivery and installation. Smaller steel or mixed-material pieces take about 6–10 weeks from design approval; large marble or bronze pieces take 3–6 months.

A lot of people never commission a piece because it feels like a leap into the unknown. What will it cost, what if I do not like it, who installs it. I get it. The truth is that a good commission is far more controlled than buying something off a showroom floor, because you see and approve everything before it is made.

This is exactly how it runs with us.

Stage 1: What happens in the first conversation?

We talk about the space before we talk about the piece. Where it will live, what it needs to do, how big you imagine it, and a working budget. Photos and rough dimensions help a lot. A floor plan helps more.

There is no obligation here. Half the value of this call is that we will tell you honestly if the idea will not work in that spot, for example marble next to a pool, or a piece that will look lost from the driveway. You do not need a finished idea. A direction is enough. If you want to come prepared, here is how to brief a sculpture commission.

Stage 2: How is the design developed?

Our design team turns the conversation into sketches, renders and material options. For pieces where scale is the big question, we 3D print a model so you can see the form in your hands, and for site visits we can bring a printed version to check it in the actual space.

This is the most collaborative stage, and the cheapest place to change your mind. Proportions get adjusted, the material is chosen, the finish is considered. We also send physical samples: a marble offcut, a patina on the real alloy, a steel finish panel. Never approve a finish from a screen.

Stage 3: What do I approve, and how does payment work?

When the design is right, everything is locked in writing: form, dimensions, material, finish, price and timeline. Our standard terms are 50% advance to confirm and 50% before delivery.

This is the point of commitment, and it protects both sides. Once approved, the piece is made exactly as agreed. If you are budgeting at this stage, how much a custom sculpture costs in Dubai breaks down what drives the number.

Stage 4: How long does fabrication take?

This is the longest stage. The piece is carved, cast or formed, then finished by hand. As a guide:

• Smaller stainless steel or mixed-material pieces: about 6–10 weeks from design approval.
• Large marble or bronze pieces: about 3–6 months.

We share progress photos and video along the way, so you see it take shape. We do not rush this part. The fastest way to ruin a commission is to squeeze fabrication to hit a handover date, so bring the commission into your programme early. The stage-by-stage view is in commission lead times from brief to installation.

Stage 5: Who handles delivery and installation?

We do. The piece is crated and moved by the same kind of specialist fine-art logistics partners museums use, then set on its base with the right fixings, lifting and siting. For significant pieces we are on site on the day.

You get aftercare guidance specific to your piece: the material, the finish and where it stands. One team from first sketch to the final fixing, so there is always one number to call.

What I tell clients

• Start with the space, not a picture from Pinterest.
• Change your mind at design stage, not after approval.
• Approve physical samples, never a render.
• Bring the commission in early. Late commissions get compromised.
• Bespoke is often not more expensive than gallery work, and it is made for your room. More on that in bespoke vs ready-made.

Frequently asked questions

How do I start a sculpture commission in Dubai?

Start with a conversation about the space and what you want the piece to do. Send photos and rough dimensions if you have them. There is no obligation at this stage.

Do I need a finished idea before commissioning?

No. A direction, a mood or a few references are enough. The design stage turns that into a resolved proposal you can approve.

Can I see the design before I pay?

Yes. You see sketches, renders, material samples and often a 3D printed model before you approve anything or pay the advance.

What are the payment terms for a commission?

Our standard terms are 50% advance to confirm the order and 50% before delivery, with price and timeline fixed at approval.

How long does a bespoke sculpture take to make?

About 6–10 weeks from design approval for smaller steel or mixed-material pieces, and about 3–6 months for large marble or bronze pieces.

Does 1-OPH install the sculpture?

Yes. We handle delivery, lifting, fixings and siting with specialist fine-art logistics partners, and we coordinate with your designer or site team.

Ready to talk about a piece? Tell us about the space on our contact page, or see the full picture on our process and customise with us. Designers and architects: this guide to sourcing bespoke art in the UAE is written for you.

1-OPH designs and delivers bespoke sculpture, water features, fireplaces, benches and planters in marble, stainless steel and bronze, for homes, hotels and developments across the UAE and GCC. Showroom in Al Quoz, Dubai.