[have] designs on {sth}

to secretly or dishonestly intend to achieve wealth, power, etc.

The idiom "have designs on something" originated from the concept of designing or planning a specific outcome or goal. The phrase suggests that a person has ambitious intentions or a strategic plan to achieve or acquire something, often with a sense of determination or calculated pursuit. It implies having a clear objective in mind and actively working towards it, sometimes with underlying motivations that may not be immediately apparent.

The ambitious executive had designs on the CEO position and worked tirelessly to gain the necessary skills and experience.
The competitor's sudden interest in our market suggests they have designs on expanding their business into our territory.
The artist had designs on creating a groundbreaking masterpiece that would revolutionize the art world.
The politician's frequent visits to the state indicated that they had designs on winning the upcoming election.
The company's aggressive acquisition strategy revealed their designs on becoming a dominant player in the industry.