Piqit: AD Connect Partners IO Furniture for Lagos Masterclass

Furthermore, AD Connect co-founder, Ojuolape Saleh, took the audience through her career journey before venturing in the sector. She espouses both achievements and struggles over the years as an establishment. Her expression truly reflects an embodiment of an attribute worthy of emulation which was attested to by her industry colleagues. According to her '' At that time, I could remember how me and my business partner were thinking of organising our first event, and we were told that it would cost us a hundred thousand naira. We gathered the money and surprisingly, it became a success.'' Presently, the design school has organized 19 workshops including several field trips and more under its sleeves. She however left no stone unturn as she appreciated sponsors of the program such as Problind, makers of automated window blinds, furniture and decor accessories. Brands like, Aretewood, lasercraft and others were ably mentioned.

The next line of the program saw Jacqueline Aki, Managing partner at James Cubit Interior; graced the podium as she unrestrictedly shared rich knowledge as an expert in the industry. While she took us through a series of lessons she had learnt  over the years,  the atmosphere became a learning ground for both aspiring designers and experienced ones.

She presented to us the pillar of six lessons; from setting up the practice, the Concept stage and so much more. She delved into the topic by making some salient points; what inspires designers to do what they do, creating a niche for themselves and not joining the bandwagon. Also, creating a full-fledged working system with the right skill set of individuals who are designers, marketers, and legal team helping to pitch your business.

According to her, Under the concept stage, design professionals in real estate are to maximize the potential of a property through thoughtful and innovative designs that not only align with their goal but also to the satisfaction of their client. She further stated, from the standpoint of an interior designer, that One of the first steps in designing a home is to understand the needs and preferences of the clients. This involves meeting with them to discuss their lifestyle, tastes, and requirements for the space. By understanding the client's needs, an interior designer can create a design that is personalized and tailored to the client's specific desires. At first, these clients might not be sure of what they want, hence the need for excellent communication skills and the ability to listen carefully to the client's feedback and incorporate their ideas into the design on the long run.

After a very rich session with Jacqueline, in no time, the seasoned real estate developer, Folajomi Ibrahim, was the next headline speaker. The level at which he grasped the attention of the audience with his gesticulation and charming intermittent smiles, bringing a lighter part to learning about concepts in a technical sector such as real estate, is something to emulate. Folajimi started his presentation as he subtly introduced to the audience ''the critical role of design professionals.'' using a true story of a client as an analogy which laid the ground for a beautiful discussion.

According to him, ''there's a client of mine who called me to visit him. As I entered his house, everywhere was just dis-organized from scented candles that filled the corner of the living room, and not enough cross ventilation, I could not imagine less that I was in a temple, and then I knew that my client is in a big trouble'' Furthermore he said, ''This client of mine ask me, folajomi do you care for a chilled water or smoothies? I said smoothies. Before I knew it, he rose from the couch as he found his way to the stairs. also, the wife came in with groceries as they both found their way upstairs. When he came down, I asked, sir, is it that you so much love your fridge that you decided to have it in your bedroom?'' He retorted '' No, upstairs is where the kitchen is''

Folajomi went further to buttress his point saying that while some homeowners prefer to take on the challenge of designing their own space, others may benefit from hiring a professional designer. A professional designer can provide valuable expertise and guidance, helping them to create a design that is tailored to their tastes and needs even with a moderate budget. According to him ''My client can afford to buy a land for millions but never saw the need to employ the services of a professional to save them from future health implications that can emanate from physical stress even with a home.

From our perspective, we believe that design should not just be about creating aesthetically pleasing visuals; it is about solving problems, meeting user needs, and achieving specific goals. 

After that successful session, Jude Ashang, a professional corporate property manager joined the conversation with other speakers for a panel discussion. It was a robust conversation as each of the speakers withheld nothing to themselves as far as crucial information is concerned.

The time management of the event was on point. In quick succession, the atmosphere once more was pepped- up with the Piqit collection from IO Furniture. The array of furniture products for home and office use, the fanciful decor accessories, and many more got many attendees in awe. If one is ever looking for quality furniture and decor aesthetics to beautify one space, one can confidently Piqit at IO Furniture.

As we were lost in the admiration of the scenery, we were offered light refreshments, and the event came to an end.