Make X Affect brings integrated thinking to New York’s construction and fit out scene
Affect Group, known for its innovative approach in construction management, real estate development, and specialist millwork, is excited to announce the formation of a new entity, Make X Affect. The new entity has come via the acquisition of Keany Interiors into the Affect Group of companies, operating under the Affect Build umbrella, and significantly strengthens Affect Build’s ability to offer fully integrated project delivery with in-house millwork and fabrication capabilities
Since its inception in 2020, Affect Group has established itself as a trusted partner in the New York construction scene, recognized for its commitment to design-driven development and socially responsible practices. Affect’s projects, ranging from transformative brownfield developments to vibrant fit-outs for some of New York's most popular venues to commercial office spaces for multinationals, highlight the company’s dedication to positive spatial change in the communities in which it serves.
Bringing In-House Expertise for Greater Efficiency
Keany Interiors’ extensive experience in high-end millwork and custom interior solutions is now a core part of Affect Build’s in-house operations. This integration will allow Affect Build to enhance project timelines, optimize costs, and ensure greater precision across its commercial office, hospitality, retail, and residential projects.
The combination of Keany Interiors’ craftsmanship with Affect Build’s innovative construction methodologies enables a new level of quality and efficiency, making Affect Build a one-stop solution for complex projects.
“This acquisition represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide a more integrated, high-quality construction experience,” said Bernard McNamee, CEO of Affect Group. “Bringing Keany Interiors under the Affect Build umbrella means we can now handle every part of the finishes process internally, from concept through installation. This creates a more efficient workflow and eliminates the typical delays and complications that come with outsourcing.”
A New Chapter for Integrated Project Delivery
By incorporating Keany Interiors into the Affect Group of companies, Affect Build continues to redefine how construction is delivered. Traditionally, the construction industry has relied on multiple external vendors, often leading to fragmented workflows, delays, and higher costs.
With the expertise of Keany Interiors now part of Affect Build’s service offering, the company can provide a fully integrated approach, improving collaboration, reducing risks, and ensuring superior project outcomes.
Stephen Keany, founder of Keany Interiors, shared his excitement about the acquisition: “Joining the Affect Group under the Affect Build umbrella allows us to leverage Affect Build’s innovative construction techniques while bringing our expertise in millwork and interior finishes to the forefront. Together, we’ll offer our clients unmatched quality and efficiency, setting new standards in the industry.”
Make X Affect: Bridging Tradition and Innovation
The new division formed through the partnership between Affect and Keany Interiors evolved from a successful collaboration on several high-profile hospitality projects, laying the groundwork for a seamless integration of services. Make X Affect leverages traditional craftsmanship and modern technology to deliver exceptional environments that are both interactive and immersive.
"Our vision for Make X Affect is to create a holistic service model that enhances every phase of the construction and fit-out process," said Bernard McNamee. "By combining our strengths, we not only streamline project delivery but also elevate the quality and impact of our work."
Partnering Directly with Clients and General Contractors
The merging of Affect Build’s innovative construction methods with Keany Interiors’ craftsmanship will not only support internal Affect Build projects but also work directly with external clients, including general contractors, developers, designers and architects. This allows for tailored solutions that meet specific project needs, offering flexible, high-quality services to a broader range of stakeholders.
“Our vision for Make X Affect is to create a comprehensive service model that enhances every phase of the construction and fit-out process,” McNamee added. “By partnering with general contractors, consultants and investors, we streamline project delivery and elevate the quality of our work across the board.”
Stephen Keany, founder of Keany Interiors, is keen to highlight that the Affect X Make millwork offering will still be available for main contractors: “Joining Affect Group allows us to bring our millwork expertise to more clients, including direct partnerships with general contractors. Together, we’ll deliver a new level of craft and efficiency.”
A Robust Future Ahead
The market response to Make X Affect has been overwhelmingly positive, with a robust order book for the next 12 months. The company’s value proposition: We are thinkers, builders, and makers, encapsulates its approach to integrated and thoughtful construction solutions.
Clients, tenants, and construction consultants alike will benefit from the enhanced service offerings of Make X Affect, which promises to streamline costs, communication, and time management, all while upholding an ethos of collaboration and quality.
Make X Affect is more than just a merger; it’s a movement towards a more integrated, efficient, and quality-driven construction and design landscape in New York City.
