Interiors Pakistan Expo 2013 (IPE 2013) was held at Lahore expo the other day in which over 40 furniture manufacturers and interior designers exhibited their work. The event that was inaugurated by renowned architect and patron of arts Nayyer Ali Dada was first of its kind in Pakistan.
IPE 2013 is an initiative taken to promote the art of furniture making in Pakistan with an aim to endorse it amongst international competitors. Serving as platform for upcoming interiors designers, the exhibition gave an opportunity to leading and young entrepreneurs alike. Amongst the exhibitors were Charagh Din and Co, Tina Khan, Urban Elements, Mohkam, NM Furnitures, Dareechey, Forgotten Crafts and The Lounge. Interior design students from Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design also presented their creations.
Open to public, the exhibition attracted 75,000 spectators. Mary Jane, visitor from the UK said, “This exhibition is an eye-opener giving us insight into the amazing work of Pakistan furniture industry. It has given us a chance to see different works of art under one roof. From indigenous to contemporary, we are amazed to see the talent and skill in this country.”
IPE, under the banner of Pakistan Furniture Council, aims to promote export of Pakistani furniture abroad. Laying emphasis on workshops, tutorials and internship programs, the board at PFC has invited furniture manufactures to join hands together in order to build secure future and strengthen the industry.
Rizwan Amjad, one of the directors of PFC and owner of National Furnitures, said, “Interiors Pakistan Expo will be held every six months in all major cities of Pakistan. Under the banner of PFC, we plan to organize workshops and tutorials for both interior designs and craftsmen to promote skill and talent. Additionally, we plan to arrange scholarship program to help students. A stronger industry will help boost economy, create job opportunities from high skill level to low in order to build promising future.”
Interiors Pakistan Expo 2013 has come as reinforcement of furniture manufacturing in Pakistan. The council has laid stress on use of sheesham wood in cheap furniture, affect of inflation, economic instability and lack of opportunities to promote skill and craftsmanship on international level.
