T-Diaries: Nyla Amjad

A glimpse into the world of Pakistani powerhouses

What sparked your interest in interior designing?

I have always been a perfectionist and had a knack for interiors but never got around to studying it properly until I got married. After moving to Lahore with my husband, I joined NCA’s interior programme. Post my graduation, I began making furniture on order and after doing a couple of exhibitions, decided to create with my own brand. It’s called ‘The Lounge’ by Nyla and offers furniture and home accessories.

What is the hardest part about working in the interior designing industry?

Deadlines in Pakistan are always tough but I have a very efficient team that is very good with deadlines. I also feel that in Pakistan, with constant electricity issues and weather conditions there can be many unnecessary delays in our work.

What is the most important thing to keep in mind when designing for a project?

The most important thing is to understand my clients’ requirements and give them solutions accordingly. At the end of the day, my clients need to be happy with the final product. I never compromise on quality, be it from the smallest accessory to the largest piece. Other than that, furniture is all about the correct proportions and dimensions as well.

How do you turn your ideas into reality?

I spend a lot of time in my studio. A lot of times, I get ideas by connecting my work to the places I have been, the people I have met and my own experiences.

Trends and styles are constantly changing and people want to have the latest in their homes. How do you manage to keep your clientele satisfied?

I usually try to make pieces that my clients don’t get bored of easily. We do a mix of modern and traditional so that they can add their existing pieces to our furniture.

You have recently launched a new store at Fortress Square Shopping Mall in Lahore. How do you think the new store will benefit your business?

The Lounge is opening its store at Fortress Square to cater to the mass market. The idea is to give people an opportunity to experience modern living with affordable solutions. I feel that there was a huge demand for gift stores in Lahore and hence, decided to create a perfect stop for any customer when it came to buying gifts for their loved ones.

Do you think there is much scope for interior designing in Pakistan?

I still feel that women would rather invest in clothes and jewellery which they would most probably wear once or twice than on a piece of furniture that would last them a lifetime. So yes, we need to educate people more in this field.

Any advice for young women aspiring to become interior designers?

Work hard and you will reach your milestones sooner or later.

Nyla Amjad

Interior designer/ Entrepreneur

Published in The Express Tribune, Ms T, March 29^th, 2015.