The Institute of Architects, Pakistan (IAP)

The Institute of Architects, Pakistan (IAP) was established in 1957 by a small group of architects who were trained internationally and had experience in both government service and private practice. The founding members include Minoo P. Mistri (Karachi), Zahir-ud-deen Khawaja (Lahore), Mazharul Islam (Dhaka), A. M. Peermohamed (Karachi), M. A. Ahed (Karachi), Tajuddin M. Bhamani (Karachi) and R. S. Rustomji (Karachi).

Objectives of IAP

To organize the architecture profession in Pakistan and safeguard the interests of both architects and the public related to the building profession.To promote architecture in Pakistan and assist in establishing schools of architecture throughout the country.To enforce a code of ethics and discipline among practicing architects, encouraging the passing of a statutory Registration Act for architects in Pakistan.To establish contacts with other national and international architectural organizations.To conduct research and organize seminars, conferences and exhibitions that promote the architectural profession.

Over the years, IAP has been instrumental in establishing the first school of architecture in Karachi in 1954, which was later upgraded to a five-year degree program. IAP members have also played a crucial role in founding and managing many other architecture schools across the country. IAP has conducted several architectural design competitions at local, national and international levels for government and corporate clients. Currently, there are over 3,000 fellow and associate members registered with IAP, along with over 4,000 student members.

Professional OrganizationRegulates architecture as a profession, upholds ethical standards, and enforces the Architects Registration Act.

Education & AdvocacyEstablishes architecture schools — including Pakistan's first school in Karachi in 1954 — and promotes sustainable design practices.

International CollaborationAffiliates with global organizations such as UIA, ARCASIA, CAA and EAROPH.

International Affiliations

IAP is associated with several international organizations. Members of IAP have served on the council of UIA at different times and have been actively involved with ARCASIA since its inception, holding various offices including the Chairmanship.

International Union of Architects (UIA)Architects Regional Council Asia (ARCASIA)Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA)Architects Association of South Asia (AASA)Eastern Regional Organization for Planning and Human Settlements (EAROPH)

IAP Chapters

IAP's seven (07) chapters cover the entire country. Each chapter organizes conferences, workshops, lectures, design competitions, and exhibitions, and engages with local authorities on matters concerning the built environment, education, and heritage.

Karachi ChapterProvince of Sindh Lahore ChapterProvince of Punjab Rawalpindi-Islamabad ChapterFederal Area & Northern Areas Peshawar ChapterKhyber Pakhtunkhwa Quetta ChapterBalochistan Chenab ChapterGujrat region Multan ChapterSouth Punjab