Shahid Abdulla is younger brother of Arshad Abdulla. Together the majestic duo formed one of the most renowned architectural services providing company of Pakistan – Arshad Shahid Abdulla (Pvt.) Ltd.
He is one of the pioneer architects of Pakistan, who excelled in this field from the very beginning.
Early life
Shahid Abdulla was born in a business family of Karachi with an urge to do different from everyone else. While growing up; he and his elder brother had access to visit construction sites and architectural materials; which opened new avenues of design on them. Shahid had put his heart into designing from the very beginning, and was keen of adopting architecture as his profession.
After completing his intermediate from Karachi, Shahid Abdulla went to United States of America; to attain further education in architecture. Shahid Abdulla got Bachelors in Architecture degree from the prestigious University of Illinois, Chicago. He joined Pyarali A. Merali Associates after returning back to the country in year 1975.
Career
Shahid Abdulla joined hands with elder brother Arshad Abdulla and formed Arshad Shahid Abdulla (Pvt.) Ltd to start own independent practice. This was the turning point of his career as it dawned many new horizons on him.
Starting from residential houses, Shahid Abdulla soon found his niche in modern architecture amalgamating it into the basic aesthetics of nature. His signature style showcased his deep connections with the country.
Shahid Abdulla became a member of Pakistan Council of Architects and Town Planners (PCATP) along with the Institute of Architects Pakistan (IAP). Shahid Abdulla is also one of the founding chairman of Pakistan Institute of Interior Designers which was established in year 2001 to aid young budding interior designers in the country alongside nurturing the profession in Pakistan.
Shahid Abdulla is famous for his wit and work mixture when in the premises of his office. He is a person full of wisdom and till date, he works to encourage fresh blood enter the market without any qualms and fears.
Famous work
One of the most famous work that rose Shahid to fame overnight was his revival of Nusserwanjee building.
In year 1990, Shahid Abdulla along with his brother and a whole group of concerned and responsible citizens of Karachi, decided to relocate the 100-year-old Nusserwanjee building from its premises of Kharadar to a new place in Clifton, saving a heritage of the city form getting demolished and lost in the ashes. Nusserwanjee building was preserved brick by brick; in to Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture.
Being founding member of the school, Shahid Abdulla also taught at the school for many years as he was an integral part of the teaching faculty. He also served as a member of board of governors and executive committee.
Another feather in his cap is The Hunar Foundation (THF), a non-profit organization which was formed to support the livelihood problems of youths of Pakistan. It was formed to provide skill training to youth which was in demand both local and abroad markets.
In recent years, Shahid Abdulla has been credited for designing grandeur buildings who give out the larger than life feel. Dolmen Mall City, is one such example which encompasses the true essence of a larger than life quotation.
Other embellished work
- CDC building, Karachi
- MCB Center, Lahore
- MCB Tower, Karachi
- Builder’s Mall, Islamabad
- Tabba Heart Institute, Karachi
- Summit Tower, Karachi
- Interior of all KHAADI stores across the globe
- Oasis Golf and Aqua resort- Main Clubhouse, Lahore
One of the most celebrated work of Shahid Abdulla is Dolmen Mall City, built on the shores of Karachi. The dream of the client was envisaged by Abdulla and the whole city was create keeping in mind the nautical theme. According to the theme, the cuts and edges wereimprovised, making it a masterpiece. The place is always bustling with life; attempting to celebrate the aesthetic sense of its architect and his vision to see beyond.
Ending note
Shahid Abdulla is a remarkable person who is still actively involved in the design processes of ASA firm. He continues to provide grasping knowledge to the young budding architects as well as embarking his vision in newer projects of the firm.
The designing process which came naturally to him, became passion which has been exuded by showcasing creativity in his projects, in his long illustrious career that spans over many decades.
Shahid Abdulla an epitome of wisdom and creativity who knows how to envisage a project larger than life!
Also Read: Nayyar Ali Dada – The Legendary Architect of Pakistan
