Irtiqa Hassan Talks To HELLO!
Tell us a little about yourself; your education, upbringing, where you grew up, and went to college?
Growing up, I have had quite a fascinating upbringing as we moved around a lot as a family. I spent my childhood in South Africa surrounded by nature and my teenage years in Dubai in the metropolis of a man made heaven before moving to Pakistan. Coming from a family of businessmen, I was a purely economics and maths student before I realized that this field wasn’t for me, and after a lot of support from my father who encouraged us always to choose our own paths, I switched my major and went to Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture to obtain my degree in interior architecture.
Have you always imagined yourself in the interior design industry?
In a way, I always have. I was always drawn to the sensitivities of my surroundings. I was always creative, always good in literature and writing. Most people don’t realise, but interior design is all about storytelling; it's all about the feelings a space dictates more than the visual it radiates. So yes, I always wanted to bring my imagination to life.
How long have you been in the industry for?
I have been in the industry for more than 5 years now.
When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career as an interior designer?
When I was designing my own house with my father as a child; the way the planning, the layouts, the fabrics, the colors, the textures spoke to me was unreal and I knew this is my passion and I want to pursue it as my career.
What elements define your style? Where do you find inspiration?
If I were to describe my design style in three words, it would be refined, ethereal and timeless. My inspiration comes from my travels, from sunrises in dynamic soaring skylines to sunsets at tranquil white sand beaches.
What is the most challenging aspect about your field?
As an interior architect, you have to be a perfectionist. The elements of interior design are like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, each of them count to make the final ambiance. It is important to understand; divine is after all in the details.
IHI- Irtiqa Hassan Interiors, was recently featured in British Vogue. How did that come about and what were your feelings?
It was one of those things you dream about and it just comes true, honestly that’s how I felt about it. The marketing head at British Vogue approached us when she came across our website and Instagram as they absolutely loved our work, and wanted us on board immediately.
Three things you wish you could achieve by the end of this year?
Shall reveal once I achieve them.
How do you set yourself apart and what do you think makes you unique from your competitors?
The field of interior architecture is not just my career path but my passion. By using my knowledge as an interior architect, skills as an artist, vision as a photographer and exposure as a frequent traveller, I want to enhance the lifestyle of the people living in Pakistan and abroad. Ultimately bringing about an evolution in the field of design.
What is your favorite interior design style?
I don’t have a particular favorite, I always enjoy exploring and playing with various styles from neoclassical to Parisian to modern luxury.
How do you overcome creative blocks?
By going out for ice cream with my husband and son while listening to old school music. Always does the trick!