What would it feel like to be at the pinnacle of your field—at an international level? Ammar Basheir has created magnificent interiors for prized clients all over the world. Let him tell you how to elevate your game.
Thank you for this opportunity. Would you mind telling our readers who you are and what you do?
I’m Ammar Basheir. Design has always been in my genes. I initially followed my artistic passion to London, where I studied interior design; later, I worked as a window designer at Harvey Nichols. In 2006, I established a studio in Bahrain. I have designed sumptuous venues in Bahrain, the U.S., and Paris. In Bahrain, my work has been showcased at Plums Restaurant/Ritz Carlton, Al Othman, the Bahrain National Art Fair, and many more.
Tell us about the “aha” moment that pushed you to get into your line of work.
At the age of five, while helping my mother paint her ceramic flowers, I discovered that I was able to mix colors and create compositions. I realized back then that I wanted this to be my career. Every time I felt upset as a child, I’d hide away in my mother’s studio. Art and design were my comfort zone.
We understand that you’ve worked on both local and global projects. How did you get your business out of Bahrain?
I serve a very niche clientele who happen to be connected. This has been a success entirely through word of mouth. After 14 years in the market, we still don’t have a website, social media accounts, or even business cards.
What are some of the biggest and most challenging projects you’ve worked on, and why?
On Motcomb, a boutique I designed in London, was my most difficult job ever—but it was a learning curve for me. It taught me the principal requirements of professionalism. I had to go through two years of permits and planning to get the required approvals.
Some clients can be a little challenging. How do you handle difficult clients?
All clients are challenging. You simply have to make them feel that they are your only client, and that you have no other job but theirs. Interior design is very much linked to social behavior. Many clients find therapy in it, and that’s why it’s important to build a personal relationship and be friends with them. This will open doors for you.
INTERIOR DESIGN IS VERY MUCH LINKED TO SOCIAL BEHAVIOR. MANY CLIENTS FIND THERAPY IN IT, AND THAT’S WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO BUILD A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP AND BE FRIENDS WITH THEM.
Have you ever fired a client because you didn’t have good chemistry with them?
I’ve never fired a client. If I don’t feel the chemistry, I will not take the job in the first place. Everything we’ve done so far has been something we’ve loved.
How do you get inspired before starting a project?
The London Underground is a good start—always inspiring.
Which place in Bahrain has the most beautiful interior design? Which has the worst?
Design is very subjective, so I have no right to answer that. What appeals to me might not appeal to others.
How many Bahraini employees do you have? How many expats? Are expats more reliable?
I’ve had lots of Bahrainis in the past; at one point, I had only Bahrainis. Now I have a mix—more expats, though. I can’t say one nationality is more reliable than any other. It’s all based upon the individual’s own dedication and passion.
This year, you’ve applied to the Bahrain Awards for Entrepreneurship. Do you feel that winning could help grow your business or reduce any challenges you’re facing?
Winning the award would give us acknowledgment and credit for the hard work we’ve done over the years. I believe this recognition would add to our credibility, and change the general perception that local talent does not exist internationally.
What pushes you to work hard every day?
I love what I do. That’s why I wake up every morning, looking forward to a new day.