Name: Attiq Ahmed
Company: AEDL
Position within Company: CEO & Principal Designer
Website: www.ag.com.pk
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc.)
MSC Architecture and Urban Design Columbia University, New York. B(Arch) with Distinction National College of Arts, Lahore. Pakistan
How would you describe your personal interior design style?
I like to create interiors that have the capacity to absorb and adjust to the different stages of one’s life, so they tend to start out quite minimal but with each passing year something new is introduced to the scheme to always keep things interesting and fresh.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Living in a city like Lahore, its unavoidable to not be inspired by the buildings and spaces that define the city’s architectural legacy over time. Defined by its Mughal architecture and Raj buildings, Lahore has been my biggest design inspiration.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
The general design sensibility at the office is to make buildings and interiors that reflect the city and more importantly a new aesthetic for signifying the city.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2017 and beyond.
Rounded edges, sculptural forms, combinations of different materials, simple joinery, matte woods.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design, what would it be?
Keep it simple and in symphony. Not all objects in the design scheme need to stand out. Some work in symphony with each other.
How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
Hoping they’ll go a long way in building the firm’s profile.
What projects are you currently working on?
1. Pre School architecture design
2. Master planning of the Mayo Hospital, the busiest hospital in the Punjab.
3. Residential Interiors
4. House Design
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession?
My clothes
Your favourite holiday destination?
Hunza
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
Hotel – Four Seasons Florence
Restaurant – Wolseley
Bar – Nightjar London
Your favourite book / film / song?
Film – Pitch Black
Book – Strange Pilgrims. Marquez
Song – Changes every week
Your favourite food and drink?
Food – Channas with Batura
Drink – Champagne
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Cooking with friends