Daily Times

KARACHI: With an aim to promote informal learning spaces in Karachi, The Dawood Foundation (TDF) recently opened its gates to a restored 1930s home that is now converted into a public space.

Now called TDF Ghar, it will connect the visitors with the rich and vibrant history of Karachi while giving them a place to talk and discuss ideas.

The Dawood Foundation hosted a meet and greet open house for the media personnel. TDF Ghar is located in Jamshed Quarters area, which is the first dedicated cooperative residential complex for middle class in Karachi. The area was developed by Jamshed Nusserwan ji in 1922 and was a home to multiple ethnicities including Muslims, Hindus, Christians, Parsis and Jews.

TDF Ghar retains its heritage architectural features, but has been rejuvenated into a public space, to re-live the true spirit of residents of this old cosmopolitan city. This space can be openly used and accessed by the public.

While expressing the vision behind TDF Ghar, TDF CEO Sabrina Dawood said, “TDF Ghar represents the ideology of peace, harmony and equality in rights for everyone. The ideology that was followed by the founders of modern Karachi! TDF Ghar, welcomes everyone to share their culture with others, talk about education, arts, science and preserve history in the best way. This place was previously under-utilised, impractical and empty so watching it transforming into a public space is the biggest source of pride for me. It is truly a testament to the transformative power of art and legacy in our society.”

The main attraction of TDF Ghar is ‘The Living Room’ museum, which comprises antique artefacts and collectables from as early as 1930s. Restored with vintage fixtures The Living Room has plenty to captivate on its own terms. As the name itself depicts that it is a home where the infrastructure, furniture, decoration and the overall ambiance would takes one back to the lifestyle of people living in the old Karachi.

In the centre of TDF Ghar lies a simple yet beautiful Sehan Café which reminds its visitors of the most famous Irani Café culture of Karachi when sitting on bentwood old Irani chairs and sipping Chai with bun would have been more relaxing than anything else.

TDF Ghar retains its heritage architectural features, but has been rejuvenated into a public space, to re-live the true spirit of residents of this old cosmopolitan city. This space can be openly used and accessed by the public

One of many specialties of TDF Ghar is a breathtaking view of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s mausoleum from the rooftop where one can sit and relax while enjoying the spectacular view of Mazar-e-Quaid. Moreover, three Numaish Halls and a training room can be utilised for organising workshops, trainings, seminars, meet-ups, exhibitions, and other activities.

Published in Daily Times, August 23^rd 2017.