Limkokwing alumna Navaal Irfan is a mother to a three-year-old. But besides her daughter, she has another baby that is dear to her heart: her company, M.A.D Consultants, her "first baby," which celebrates its seventh anniversary this year.
Navaal earned a BSc in Architecture from Limkokwing University in 2012. Reflecting on her time studying at the University, Navaal said, “The diversity and exposure at Limkokwing were crucial. It’s not just the education but the global network of friends and mentors that continue to enrich my career.”
As the co-founder and driving force behind M.A.D. Consultants, Navaal has steered the company to be a comprehensive solution provider in architecture and design. She is the managing partner and head architect and oversees the design department, while her husband manages the project and financial aspects. Together, they provide comprehensive services, including architectural and interior design, furniture and lighting design, project management, and construction. Navaal describes their services as “a blend of creativity and pragmatism, aimed at bringing our client’s visions to life.”
M.A.D. Consultants is not just a business for Navaal; it’s a means to uplift the local community. Under Navaal’s leadership, M.A.D. Consultants have made significant contributions to Pakistan’s community. By elevating local skilled labour and collaborating with small and medium enterprises, the company has become a platform for societal growth, reflecting a commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices. “Their growth signifies our success,” she explains.
Navaal takes pride in balancing her roles as a parent and a business leader. Navaal believes in the power of preparation and support. Her foresight in expanding and training her architecture team during pregnancy exemplifies her dedication to her family and profession. “Planning for my daughter’s arrival was key. It’s about building a team at work that you trust and having a partner who shares the load,” she remarks.
M.A.D. Consultants is more than just a business for Navaal; it’s a mission to create dream spaces for clients while maintaining integrity and uplifting local communities. For Navaal, the success of M.A.D. Consultants is measured by the value it adds to clients’ lives. She envisions her company leaving an indelible mark in the design world, not through wealth or volume of projects, but through honest work and community support. “Our aim is not just to be successful in the conventional sense,” she states. “We want to be remembered for our honesty and our role in uplifting those around us.”
Navaal’s current projects include an unconventional residence in a standard housing area and a 20,000 sqft tech hub demanding creativity and innovation. She is particularly excited about designing a unique residence in a conventional setting and a large tech hub. But her most cherished project remains her parents’ house. “Designing my parents’ home was a personal milestone. It was an opportunity to apply sustainable practices in a real-world setting,” she shares. This project is a personal triumph, showcasing sustainable design, solar energy utilisation, water recycling, and a blend of modernity and nature.
Navaal’s journey was filled with hard work and determination. Her advice to students is to trust in their talents and ambitions. Embracing risks, according to her, leads to greater rewards. “It’s about believing in your ability to push boundaries,” she advises. “Taking risks is integral to achieving significant rewards.”
Navaal Irfan’s approach to architecture and design goes beyond aesthetics, encompassing social responsibility and sustainable practices. Balancing motherhood with leading a thriving business, she is an exemplary figure for aspiring female architects and entrepreneurs, demonstrating that one can make a significant impact in their field and community with passion and hard work.
To explore more about Navaal’s work and M.A.D. Consultants, visit their Instagram or Facebook page.
