The World of Hospitality Issue 58 2024 | Page 51

EDITOR ’ S CHOICE
MyLahore Restaurant Iconinc ( Yeme Architects ) Roomzzz ( Yeme Architects )

Championing versatile design , promoting sustainability and being a role model …

- IA DESIGNS -
With almost 20 years ’ experience within the commercial and residential interior design industry , I have been blessed to have worked on various projects in highly creative design studios . Working with talented teams to deliver for Imran Akram clients such as Levi ’ s , Lego , Carluccio ’ s , Pizza Express , Burberry , Lush , Roomzzz , Iconinc , British Land , Bruntwood and local authorities just to name a few .
With experience comes a greater understanding of design and a new found respect for the process and the various suppliers , consultants and trades that help deliver the projects . The saying ‘ who you know ’ rather than ‘ what you know ’ is very prevalent in the design industry and your vison is only a drawing without the help of a great team .
My love for storytelling and sustainability has really shaped my recent work within the leisure and hospitality industry . Becoming a more conscious designer that champions sustainability and educates clients big or small on the impact their decisions make . Helping give a greater understanding of good design and the environment is something I am actively encouraging , in particular within South Asian communities . though it is good to see this has started to change .
Growing up , design was something I was good at and had a passion for , but not considered as a career choice . I didn ’ t have anyone from my background working in the creative industry for advice , it all felt like a gamble when considering to go to Art college to study design . It ’ s great to see how design has become accessible to all and there is a new appreciation for aesthetic experiences that are multi-sensory . Through education and the new found rise on social channels interior design is becoming highly sought after and ultimately great for business . Big brands have been using design consultants for years but the surge of smaller brands and independents has made ‘ the designer ’ a well-kept secret .
My recent work with MyLahore Restaurants has given me the opportunity to revitalize a Grade II listed building and also use sustainable materials . The former coach house is over 300 years old and a community hub . The project was also shortlisted for ‘ Best restaurant design ’ at the Northern Design awards . The space is a hive of activity and yet the character of the building has been preserved and
Roomzzz ( Yeme Architects ) celebrated .
www . instagram . com / designerscure /? hl = en
Creative industries are often misunderstood and underrepresented within ethnic minority communities , www . iadesigns . co . uk
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