Dastak is a charitable trust dedicated to supporting women in distress. The client sought a subdued building; one that provides shelter without demanding undue attention. The design philosophy draws inspiration from the concept of the burqa, symbolizing a woman's ability to see everything while remaining unseen, protected, and confident. The front façade of the building has a beautiful composition of perforations influenced by the burqa and ethnic embroidery patterns of Punjab-Phulkari. The delicate metal screens on the brick façade create an interesting filtration of light within the interior spaces. As the sun moves across the sky, the ever-changing shadows pervade the building with a sense of motion. The design of the screens is crafted to address the sensitivity of the occupants, who are women struggling with court cases primarily related to domestic violence, often without a place to seek shelter. While the shelter house remains concealed from the outside world, it empowers the women within to look outward without fear of scrutiny. This connection with the outside environment is crucial in restoring their confidence and aiding their journey towards resilience and strength. The screens not only provide privacy but also grant the occupants the freedom to open windows for natural ventilation when desired, enabling them to engage with their surroundings. By offering control over their environment, the design fosters a sense of empowerment for the women residing within the building.

• Location Lahore
• Covered area 12066 sqft
• Year of completion 2017