This week You! features Lahore-based interior designers Asma Nabeel and Nabeel Ahmed who talk about their work and also share some interior tips…
interiors
Mixing the type of furniture, textiles, illumination, and art with different textures and complementary tones is essential to creating a unique space that is both transcendent and elegant.
Interior designers conceptualise and develop blueprints for the design of internal spaces based on client budgets and objectives.
They use space, colour and movement in the formation of design plans that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
From classic to modern, from eclectic to the most outrageous, the team at Native Interiors composed by the talented Asma Nabeel and Nabeel Ahmed is here to keep up with the modern times of interior design in the most clever ways while maintaining the luxury and simple upbringing in their interior design projects.
Known for listening to each costumer and understanding their needs and desires, they are capable of using luxurious materials and vintage pieces combined with the latest contemporary pieces that complete the rooms.
“We have been into designing and furnishing since 15 years. We started as an idea to bring together best designs and best furniture manufacturer professionals under one roof to deliver affordable yet contemporary designs to households across Pakistan. Our collection consists of modern, classis and vintage furniture. I personally like to work with a fusion of all. So far we have done more than 50 exhibitions in Pakistan and 3 in Dubai.
In our recent collection, we have added a hand painted chester. We have an art background so we like to include that into our furniture to make them a statement piece in the room. I have recently placed a 35 feet tall painting in a hallway which has become my signature style,” informs Asma.
Describing his style, Nabeel explains, “I’d call it functional eclecticism. I like to mix materials and textures, but at the same time, I never choose the beauty instead of functionality. I love symmetry and balance, continued lines and layers of textures, I love to play with light, love to bring a touch of mystery.”
Talking about her inspiration, Asma says, “I mostly research a lot, mostly through Pinterest. Furthermore, I love to travel and take inspirations from around the world. Nature is also my biggest inspiration; I make combinations out of nature. On a personal note, I truly admire David Collins and Nayyer Ali Dada, in the architecture and design world.”
With the emphasis on aesthetic appeal, it is not uncommon to find that many interiors that look great don’t actually function very well. “When you are designing and planning a renovation project or new home, it is critical that the design works in a functional and practical way.
We like to make furniture using unusual combinations; we make furniture other than the routine browns and gold. Furthermore, we make hand painted furniture in a very modern way,” elucidates Nabeel.
“The goal is to create rooms with hints of high fashion, atmospheres that make people happy, and those that express what they really enjoy.
The most important quality of a luxury home is that the owners see it as a true ‘home’. It should reflect them, their ideas, and their interests in the most beautiful and functional way possible.
Colours, motifs, furnishings, art, and accessories should mix perfectly with their surroundings, finding a rhythm to accompany the personal taste of the owners,” adds Nabeel.
When asked what signifies professionally fulfillment in her eyes, Asma was adamant in telling that she achieves this when she finishes a project and find a complete sense of logic, quality, and fulfillment of the clients’ needs. “I like to think of our interiors as a unique piece of art, where every element has an important role within the space to create an overall harmony. Our projects represent the interests and tastes of clients, so part of my work consists of discovering who they are and then showing them how their style can be elevated to new levels,” Asma replies.
Keeping up to date with all the trends is essential for anyone who wants to conquer this market. The couple share pro tips, “We follow the modern trends through specialised websites and literature, also through international architecture/construction exhibitions. As far as colours are concerned, bright and solid colours like orange and bottle green are very in these days. Also, carvings with solid colours like black and white with a touch of brass is also becoming popular.”
For Asma being an interior designer gives her a certain kind of freedom. “I love being independent. I do not have to copy anybody; I can use absolutely any kind of combinations and bring my creative ideas to life. I love adding my art to my interiors and statement pieces,” she tells.
Asma and Nabeel’s own house has been done artistically. “I love collecting original artwork and antique pieces and I have placed everything in my house strategically. Furthermore, each room in our house is done in a different way, including vintage, modern and classic,” notifies Asma.
While talking about their ongoing projects Nabeel informs, “Currently, we are handling a four story building in DHA, Lahore and a factory of our own for furniture production.”
While sharing some useful interior tips Asma says, “Dark colours are definitely design-friendly, but they make a room appear smaller. Stick to pale colours such as white, cream, pale grays and blues to keep it light, airy and open. The key to a fresh and colorful interior decor is to use indoor plants. They instantly change the atmosphere and add that kick your decor needs to stand out and to feel complete. Plants are very versatile that they can be placed at any corner and area or space of your home.”
However, according to Nabeel, investing in furniture that serves many functions is a simple way to streamline a room. “Try a vintage steamer trunk or an ottoman with built-in storage to tuck away blankets and books for a clean look. Mirrors are the quickest way to make a room appear larger. While you may not want wall-to-wall, lean an oversized full-length one against a key wall or hang multiple ones salon style to create a statement wall,” he concludes.
