In a candid exchange with Affan ahmed (Partner ORAD) www.linkedin.com/in/affan-ahmed-b4590a96 , the innovative mind behind ORAD, Â Architimes delve into the depths of architectural creativity, philosophy, and the challenges facing the profession today. From his humble beginnings to his visionary approach to design, Affan shares insights that inspire and provoke thought.
Affan's journey into architecture was not a conventional one. His fascination with set design and art direction in cinema ultimately led him to discover his passion for architecture. Graduating from CIIT, Islamabad, he embarked on a career with a local design firm, where he honed his skills and cultivated his unique perspective on architecture.
What resonates most with him about architecture is its multifaceted nature. For him, architecture is the perfect intersection of arts, engineering, and philosophy. It is habitable art that envelopes us, lives with us, and carries our legacy forward—a sentiment that underscores the profound impact architecture can have on individuals and communities.
In developing his design philosophy, he draws inspiration from a diverse array of sources. From the writings of Alexander Calder to the teachings of metabolist architecture, each project is imbued with a distinct concept that informs its design. Whether it's the roughness and brutal nature of concrete or the shock value of a pink shimmery facade, he and his team at ORAD revel in exploring extremes and pushing the boundaries of conventional design.
When asked about his influences, he cites Habib Fida Ali and Yasmeen Lari ) as architects whose work has left a lasting impression on him. Their honesty, audacity, and aspirational designs serve as beacons of inspiration in his architectural journey.
At ORAD, collaboration is key. He values the input of his team members and encourages a balanced and highly opinionated but rational design studio. Each project is approached with a fresh perspective, and every stakeholder's voice is heard, ensuring that the eventual product reflects a multitude of viewpoints.
In designing houses, Affan focuses on initiating the design process with a concept that resonates with the project's context. Whether it's a house without fenestration on the roadside front or a residence built around the idea of a baramadah being the facade, Affan prioritizes form over embellishments, challenging the prevailing trends in residential design.
Looking beyond architecture, Affan founded NOTION , a content creation and marketing agency born out of his passion for filmmaking and photography. He is also actively incorporating machine learning tools into his design process, further pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation.
Despite his achievements, Affan remains acutely aware of the challenges facing the architectural profession today. From undervaluing work to succumbing to the pressures of the real estate industry, he believes that architects must strive for integrity and nuance in their work.
Despite his achievements, he remains acutely aware of the challenges facing the architectural profession today. From undervaluing work to succumbing to the pressures of the real estate industry, he believes that architects must strive for integrity and nuance in their work.
To the younger generation, he offers sage advice: research is the foundation of every design. By delving deep into site conditions, theory, user needs, and societal dynamics, architects can create meaningful and impactful designs that stand the test of time.
In conclusion, our conversation with him offers a glimpse into the mind of a visionary architect who is reshaping the architectural landscape with his innovative designs and unwavering commitment to excellence. As he continues to push the boundaries of architectural possibility, we eagerly anticipate the transformative impact his work will have on the world around us.
-A Conversation between Affan and Architimes-
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