According to Haneen Rafi (2017), TDF Ghar, established by The Dawood Foundation, is a restored heritage building originally constructed in the 1930s. Carefully preserved while being adapted for contemporary use, it retains its original architectural character and now functions as a cultural and educational space. Antique artefacts and collectibles from the past century are displayed, reflecting its historical and cultural significance. The building consists of three floors and has successfully preserved its original flooring, windows, woodwork and architectural features. The area was clean with no visible litter and an abundance of plants and greenery. Seating areas were available throughout, alongside an outdoor café (Figure 2. 1) that is frequently used by visitors. There were fans and clean washrooms equipped with functioning locks, soap and toilet paper. The building also incorporated ramps and handrails on staircases, improving accessibility.

(Figure 2. 1)

The exhibits were accompanied by detailed information in both English and Urdu (Figure 2. 2) and throughout our visit we noticed that visitors consistently stopped to read the information provided. Artefact preservation measures were also evident through the use of glass display cases and clear “Do Not Touch” signage (Figure 2. 3) where appropriate.

(Figure 2. 2)

(Figure 2. 3)

During our observation between 3 and 4 p.m. on a Tuesday, there were around 14 women and 4 men present. We also observed three families, each with one child, alongside two couples, with the remaining visitors consisting primarily of women. TDF Ghar also demonstrates an active effort to engage the public through regular cultural events. Multiple posters advertising upcoming programmes, including three promotional posters for the “Karachi Kichri event”, were displayed throughout the building (Figure 2. 4).

(Figure 2. 4)

A teenage student studying at the café described TDF Ghar as a “cozy environment. ” She also believed that the historical character of the building should remain unchanged as preserving its heritage is one of its greatest strengths. Another student studying at the library described that it was his favorite place in the city to come and study and he felt that the books at TDF ghar provided him with a vast amount of information. Another young woman explained that attending art exhibitions at TDF Ghar had strengthened her appreciation of both art and history, describing it as “an open space to connect. ” A first-time visitor attending with her family commented that the heritage building had been preserved exceptionally well and described the environment as peaceful, explained that the exhibits had helped her learn more about Pakistan’s history and expressed a strong intention to return. Another regular visitor noted that she had previously seen videos of events hosted at TDF Ghar and hoped to attend future programmes herself. She described the institution as “a very unique concept. “

Despite these strengths, several areas for improvement were identified. Although ramps and handrails were available, access to the upper floors was only possible via stairs which may present difficulties for elderly visitors and individuals with limited mobility. Directional

signage and room labels within the building were limited. Moreover, there was little signage guiding visitors to locations and no visitor brochures or maps were available during our visit. Lastly, there was also an entry fee of 150 rupees and an additional fee of 150 Rupees to enter the exhibit on the second floor