Legacy Builds Group unites architecture, engineering, and construction under one roof, backed by decades of combined expertise from its founders. We deliver integrated solutions built on quality, integrity, and a commitment to lasting impact in every community we serve.
About us
Legacy Builds Group was founded on something much stronger than a business idea—it was built on a lifelong friendship. We all grew up together in the same neighborhood in Kuwait, where we spent our childhood playing soccer, working out together, and dreaming about what the future could hold. From a young age, we challenged each other to think bigger, work harder, and never settle. Long before we knew what our careers would become, we shared one dream: to come to the United States, build successful lives, and one day create something meaningful together. When that dream became reality, we lived together, supported one another through every challenge, and launched our first venture by buying, repairing, and selling cars while working toward a much bigger vision.
As our careers evolved, each of us developed a unique expertise. Ahmad became an architect and licensed builder, Firas pursued electrical engineering, and Hussein built his career as an entrepreneur and business leader. Bringing those strengths together allowed us to create something truly different—a company that provides architecture, engineering, design, and construction under one roof. But the name Legacy has always meant more to us than a business. We didn’t set out to build a company simply to make a living or generate profits. We set out to build something that would outlive us. Our goal is to leave a lasting fingerprint on the communities we serve through quality work, integrity, and the relationships we build. We hope that one day our children will proudly continue what we started, carrying our values and our vision forward for generations to come. To us, success isn’t measured only by the buildings we complete—it’s measured by the legacy we leave behind, the people we impact, and the example we set long after we’re gone.
About us
Our mission is to design and deliver architectural spaces that combine creativity, functionality, and lasting value. We aim to transform ideas into well-crafted environments that not only meet practical needs but also inspire the people who experience them. Every project is guided by.
Our vision is to become a leading force in modern architecture by creating spaces that inspire, connect, and stand the test of time. We aim to shape environments that go beyond aesthetics, focusing on how people live, work, and interact within the spaces we design. Through innovation and forward.
Our values define who we are and guide every decision we make as an architecture studio. We believe in integrity, creativity, and a commitment to excellence in everything we do. Each project is approached with honesty and responsibility, ensuring that our clients receive.
How it works?
I was born and raised in Kuwait, where I completed my early education. From a young age, I was drawn to entrepreneurship. Whether I was buying, selling, or renting items to friends, I always enjoyed finding opportunities and creating value. Building businesses wasn't just an interest — it was a goal I carried with me from childhood.
Coming to the United States was a lifelong dream. After graduating from high school in Kuwait, I moved to Michigan to continue my education at Henry Ford College, where I studied Business. Along the way, I worked in restaurants, coffee shops, and the automotive industry, gaining valuable experience in customer service, sales, and operations. Eventually, I founded La Gelati, a premium dessert brand that has grown into a successful business with multiple locations. Building that company from the ground up taught me how to create systems, build teams, market a brand, and scale a business.
Construction has always been close to me. My father worked as a contractor in Kuwait, and I grew up around the industry. Owning a construction company had always been one of my biggest goals. When the opportunity came to partner with my lifelong friends, Ahmad Derbas and Firas Abu Karneib, everything came together naturally. Ahmad brought his expertise as an architect and licensed builder, Firas contributed his engineering knowledge, and I brought my background in entrepreneurship, business development, marketing, and operations. Together, we built Legacy Builds Group with a vision of offering clients a complete in-house solution.
As CEO, I focus on business development, marketing strategy, client relationships, company growth, and overall operations. A large part of my role is developing new opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and ensuring every client receives an exceptional experience from the first conversation through project completion. I also oversee the company's direction, making sure our team continues to improve, grow, and maintain the highest standards.
One of my greatest strengths is building businesses from the ground up. I enjoy creating systems, developing brands, and helping companies grow. I also value strong relationships and believe trust is earned through communication, reliability, and consistently delivering on promises. My passion is helping clients turn their ideas into reality while making the entire process as smooth and transparent as possible.
What sets Legacy Builds Group apart is our ability to provide everything under one roof. From architectural design and engineering to interior design and construction, we manage every stage of the project in-house. This integrated approach allows us to deliver greater efficiency, stronger communication, and better results for our clients.
Outside of work, I enjoy staying active in the gym and spending time within the local community. Giving back and supporting the community has always been important to me, and I believe strong businesses should also have a positive impact on the people they serve.
Ahmad Derbas was born in Lebanon and raised in Kuwait, where he completed high school before continuing his education in the United States. He completed transfer coursework at Henry Ford College and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Detroit Mercy. Before obtaining his Michigan builder's license, Ahmad developed more than five years of real-world experience in architectural design and project management.
From an early stage in his career, Ahmad was driven by an entrepreneurial mindset and a strong desire to build, grow, and create lasting businesses. His ambition, work ethic, and willingness to take responsibility have shaped both his professional journey and his approach to leadership.
Ahmad has worked across the architecture, engineering, construction, and real estate development industries. His experience includes coordinating architects, engineers, municipal officials, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients to move projects from vacant land and initial concepts through design, permitting, construction, and final key delivery.
Becoming a partner at Legacy Builds Group was a natural step in fulfilling his lifelong goal of building a career in construction. Ahmad and his partners share a strong level of trust, alignment, and understanding, allowing them to make decisions efficiently and work toward a common vision for the company.
As the primary operator of the business, Ahmad oversees both back-office operations and field activities. His day-to-day responsibilities include business planning, architectural design, client and municipal coordination, permitting, project management, construction management, client relations, financial tracking, and critical job-site decisions. His ability to understand both design and construction allows him to manage projects from multiple perspectives while keeping the overall vision, budget, schedule, and execution aligned.
Ahmad is especially passionate about translating a client's vision into a clear and buildable design. He works to understand each client's wants, needs, lifestyle, and long-term goals while developing practical solutions that respect their budget.
His leadership style is ambitious, decisive, and results-driven. Ahmad approaches every project with urgency and believes that challenges should be addressed immediately rather than postponed. He values accountability, clear communication, efficiency, and delivering on commitments. What makes his approach different is his constant drive to move projects forward and achieve results without sacrificing the client's vision.
Outside of work, Ahmad enjoys custom home design, politics, economics, and anime. Family remains his greatest motivation, and he considers the time and effort he invests in growing Legacy Builds Group to be part of building a better future for them.
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