Culture

The way we live continues to evolve – so why are the structures designed for living so often left unchanged?

OYO is an architectural collaborative that challenges convention to reveal the true potential of space. We seek opportunities to improve the way we learn, relax, work and interact with others, and to create public places that stimulate new levels of commerce, engagement, productivity and biodiversity.

We believe Originality Yields Opportunity. This is the OYO way.

We collectively envision what the experience of a structure or area could be, aiming to create a space with a positive impact where people can thrive.

Our 6 Key Principles

There are 6 principles that are integral to what we do. No matter the size of your project, these principles guide the way we work, the designs we produce and the vision brought to life.

HOW WE BEHAVE

1. Creative Curiosity
2. Tailored & Co-Creative
3. Empathic Attitude

HOW WE WORK

4. Atmosphere Design
5. Ecosystem Thinking
6. Community Driven

Our studio operates as an open framework for ideas. Both, the studio space and our processes have been designed to inspire shared ideation. We use continuous learning and constant curiosity as a driving force for innovation.

Whenever we receive a project or opportunity, we employ critical thinking and open-mindedness in equal measure. This approach means questioning convention and ensuring original thinking is present in our designs. We’re proud to say that our “house style” is an anti-house style.

Our approach is both co-creative and client-centric, resulting in spaces that reflect the unique DNA and identity of our clients. We collaborate closely with all stakeholders, welcoming

diverse perspectives and expertise to the table. At the same time, this tailored, co-creative process ensures that our designs honour the integrity of our client’s vision and needs. Our commitment is to create spaces that are distinctly reflective of our clients’ aspirations.

Cultivating empathy is central to our approach. We foster a positive and empathic atmosphere within our team, where a listen-first attitude takes precedence over superimposing our own ideas on your quest.

This approach creates a comfortable space for sharing bold ideas and ensures a delicate balance between client context and nature-infused ideation. This empathic culture is the driving force behind our projects, infusing them with creativity, purpose, and a profound sense of togetherness.

Every space should have an atmosphere, a quality that leaves an impression on those who enter it.

Atmosphere Design involves thinking about the layers of design details that build towards a feeling. We believe that using honest or natural materials will make a space feel comfortable.

By restoring an original design feature will give a building authenticity and character. Or by blurring the lines between inside and outside, we can make a structure feel at one with nature. With a deep respect for the craft, we want to make people happy, encouraging them to feel at ease and to enjoy a genuine experience.

Atmosphere Design ensures every space bears its soul.

Designing a space means designing an ecosystem – one that balances spatial, behavioural, economic and environmental impact. When these factors operate in harmony, they create a space capable of sustaining a variety of functions. We feel accountable and believe it is our job as planners and architects to direct and curate this balance, whilst still leaving room for spontaneity and serendipity.

We consider liveability, material life-cycle, carbon footprint, biodiversity and building performance in every step we take, ensuring a long-lasting positive outcome. We believe in sustainability by design.

We design spaces to inspire communities. We take this approach regardless of the scale or type of project. Whether we’re designing a house, a workplace, an education facility or a whole neighbourhood, the desire to bring people together is at the heart of every environment.

This means truly understanding the lives of those who will inhabit the space and finding ways for those lives to coexist and coalesce meaningfully. We don’t just want to create aesthetic designs but build lasting structures that foster community and provide a sense of belonging.