SURFACES REPORTER is deeply saddened by the untimely demise of Hafeef PK and Hamid MM-- principal architects and co-partners of Malappuram, Kerala-based Zero Studio. Ar Hafeef PK passed away on the 3rd Dec 2022, morning at his home in Parachikodan, Palakulam, due to cardiac arrest, leaving behind several of his notable works. His partner could not bear his partner's passing and accompanied him on the heavenly travel just 6 days after Hafeef's death on 9th Dec 2022.
Both were exceptional architects who proved their mettle at both state and national level.Their quest for innovation is evident in all the projects taken up by them. They led a contemporary interpretation of modern Kerala architecture in the last ten years.
Life Journey
Hailed from a modest background, Hafeef was a passionate and sincere architect who had slowly but steadily created waves in landscape design and architecture. He was not only an exceptional architect, but a skilled leader as well. Ar Hafeef PK brought a dead quarry back to life and transformed it into a forest full of life.
Hafeef and Hamid passed out of TKM College of Engineering, Kollam, Kerala. Hafeef started his architectural studies with the help of a scholarship. During his graduation from TKM, he wrote a thesis on a multi-faith cemetery, which was chosen for the prestigious NIASA Thesis Competition. While working as a secretary in NIASA, he won several accolades for his wondrous works.
Green Lattice, an award winning unbuilt project by Zero Studio. Image Credit: Zero Studio FB page
After pursuing his graduation, he set up his own architectural Firm-Zero, Studio- in partnership with his friend Hamid in Calicut. In a very short span, the firm earns several recognitions and awards for its remarkable architectural works. The young architecture studio won IIA National Awards for excellence in Architecture in the ‘Architecture Unbuilt’ category. The firm keeps on bagging awards in the following years as well.
Hafeef and Hamid did not believe in merely creating spaces with solids and voids. But they called their firm an art studio since architecture is often described as the mother of all arts and at Zero, they aimed to create a subtle blend of it with all other counterparts, including art and graphic design.
Several of their works have been extensively featured in various publications, including Mausam, HALAMAN-The Courtyard House, The Lantern House, The Secrets of Sea, and many more.
HALAMAN-The Courtyard House
Ar Hafeef PK and Ar Hamid MM were wonderful architects and equally nice human beings. They were gurus and inspirations to many young and aspiring architects. They have led by example, inspiring many around them that humble beginnings do not stop us from dreaming infinitely.
Our prayers for strength to their family, friends, and colleagues to bear this irreparable loss. May the departed souls rest in peace.