‘I am not a dreamer; I am a doer’
Interior designer Aakif Habib, of Atelier Habib, on ideas and objects that matter most
What is your personal style?
Minimal and classic. I am almost always seen in all black.
What is the most special item in your wardrobe?
A collector's edition timepiece gifted by my father.
Who are your fashion heroes?
I like George Clooney's suave style.
What are your most favourite holiday destinations?
I love London, Paris, and Milan.
Paris is a favourite destination
What do you like to collect?
Timepieces, art, and of course classic cars.
What is the most significant gift you have given someone?
A Mercedes AMG to my son on his 18th birthday.
What was the last thing you bought for yourself?
A classic Hermes belt.
Aakif in his uniform of black
Do you remember a time when you were happiest?
I'm always happy and grateful. Shukar Alhamdolliah
What is your greatest achievement?
My family.
What does sustainability mean to you?
It’s quite simply being conscious of how our choices today impact people and the planet tomorrow.
Mercedes AMG
Are you a minimalist or maximalist?
A maximalist.
What is on your Spotify list?
‘Haq Ali Ali’ by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan on loop.
What are you reading at the moment?
‘Zaha Hadid: Testing the Boundaries’ by Alexandra Papadakis and Andreas Papadakis.
What do you dream of at night?
I am not a dreamer, I am a doer.
What are the phrases you use most?
“I'm on my way.”
What are your favourite foods?
I think Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisines.
Where do your best ideas come from?
When I travel.