GMD Surfaces: From Syria to Success in the Stone Fabrication Industry

Omar Chahin’s journey to becoming a leader in the surfaces fabrication and home-building industries is one of flexibility, ambition, and constant evolution. Originally from Syria, Chahin moved to the United States in 1988 to pursue his education. His father, a political science and economics graduate, transitioned into contracting, which sparked Chahin’s interest in the world of construction. After earning his master’s degree in architectural engineering from the University of Kansas, Chahin started his career in architecture in the Chicago area.

He quickly achieved architectural and engineering licenses, setting the stage for his future endeavors. By 2004, Chahin had ventured into custom home building, specializing in luxurious, large-scale properties. However, when the housing market took a hit in 2007, Chahin pivoted. He sold his assets and used the funds to invest in a stone fabrication business, founding GMD Surfaces. What started as a small venture has, over the past 17 years, grown into a company known for its craftsmanship and dedication to the artisan aspect of stone surfaces.

Craftsmanship, Challenges, and Growth

At GMD Surfaces, Chahin is passionate about working with large-format materials, tiles, countertops, fireplaces, and walls, which most contractors avoid due to their complexity. For Chahin, the challenge is part of the appeal. “In construction, things can always be adjusted in the field, but in the surface industry, you have to be precise,” he says. The hands-on, detailed work required in the stone industry demands excellence, something that Chahin’s background in architecture helps him achieve.

Starting without the high-tech equipment the industry now depends on, Chahin’s early work involved manual measurements and basic tools. His first CNC machine, a critical investment in his business, came through an auction during the 2007 recession—a bittersweet moment as it was someone else’s misfortune that led to his technological leap. Since then, GMD Surfaces has grown its capabilities with top-of-the-line equipment like CNC water jets, dual-bed saws, and water filtration systems that recycle 95% of the water they use, a testament to Chahin’s commitment to sustainability.

Focus on Safety and Innovation

Safety and efficiency are top priorities for Chahin. Proactively, he invited OSHA into his facility for inspections, ensuring his employees work in the safest environment possible. “No one wants to go to work and get hurt,” he says, highlighting the importance of continuous training, dust collection processes, and hearing preservation measures.

Beyond safety, Chahin is a firm believer in leveraging technology. His shop is now paperless, using iPads and digital systems to stay organized and efficient. “The technology keeps us productive,” he explains. “If we don’t evolve, we fall behind.”

A Commitment to Quality and Cambria

As a premier fabricator, Chahin holds Cambria products in high regard. “Cambria is one of the best products to cut,” he says. His excitement for the future lies in vertical surfaces, where Cambria’s lightweight, thinner designs offer exciting opportunities. The strong partnership with Cambria has been a key factor in GMD Surfaces’ success, providing reliable support, high-quality materials, and a connection to Cambria’s family-owned values.

Looking Ahead: Growth, Sustainability, and Family

For Chahin, growth is essential. “Businesses are like humans—if you’re not growing, you’re dying,” he says. He plans to expand GMD Surfaces by investing in new technologies and potentially opening operations in new geographic locations. The future also holds the promise of integrating AI to enhance business operations, from cash flow management to marketing.

On a personal note, Chahin’s family is an integral part of his life. While none of his children currently work in the business, they are pursuing careers that align with his future dreams. His daughter, an architect, may one day design his retirement home; his son is studying business; and his youngest is training to be an orthopedic surgeon—“perhaps to fix his knees after years of hard work!” commented Chahin.

Through it all, Chahin remains committed to providing the highest quality and value, as reflected in GMD Surfaces’ five-star reviews and the loyal customer base he’s built. “We aren’t superheroes, but we are really good at what we do,” he says with a smile.

A Legacy of Excellence

Chahin’s story is a testament to his persistence, adaptability, and a passion for excellence. From starting in a competitive stone market to becoming a premier fabricator, Omar Chahin has built a legacy that will endure for generations to come.