“Janelar” | A Reflection by Gloria Cabral

We invited the renowned architect Gloria Cabral to share her vision of the window, an essential architectural element.  In this exclusive piece, she reflects on how openings go beyond their practical function, transforming into portals of light, connection, and new beginnings, revealing the profound poetry embedded in the act of design.    Janelar  “Airing out […]

Venice Architecture Biennale 2025: Radical Prototypes for a Changing World

The 19th Venice Architecture Biennale, curated by Italian architect and MIT professor Carlo Ratti, opened this year under the provocative theme “Intelligens. Natural. Artificial. Collective”. At the intersection of these forms of intelligence stands architecture, and, quite literally, the hands that bring it to life.  Among the many national pavilions and installations taking center stage […]

The Language of Modern Mediterranean Architecture

There is a particular kind of silence in Mediterranean architecture. A silence made of sun-bleached walls, filtered light passing through wooden slats, and open courtyards that breathe with the wind. Today, this timeless language is being rewritten—minimal, restrained, and yet deeply rooted in the rituals of the land.  A Tradition Reinvented Modern Mediterranean architecture doesn’t […]

How to Find and Develop Architectural Ideas and Inspiration

In architecture, inspiration is everything. It drives concepts, shapes materiality, and defines the experience of space. But finding fresh ideas, especially in a fast-paced, globalized industry, requires more than scrolling through image feeds or revisiting old references. It demands a mindset of curiosity, observation, and intention. Here are six practical ways to uncover and turn […]

Less is More: Celebrating Mies van der Rohe’s Legacy on his Birthday

Today marks the birth anniversary of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, a titan of modern architecture whose influence continues to shape skylines and inspire design conversations globally.  Born in 1886, Mies’ early career was steeped in the burgeoning German architectural scene.  He honed his craft under the tutelage of Peter Behrens, a prominent figure who […]

Five Lessons from Mies van der Rohe for Architects Today

March 27 marks the anniversary of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. His philosophy, built on clarity, simplicity, and material honesty, inspires contemporary architecture. His work embodies a timeless vision that remains as relevant as ever. Here are five key lessons architects today can learn from […]

The Essence of Scandinavian Architecture and Design

Scandinavian architecture and design represent a deep connection between nature, functionality, and the human experience. Grounded in a landscape of vast fjords, endless forests, and soft northern light, it reflects a unique philosophy and way of life. The Origins The origins of Scandinavian architecture date back to the Viking era, when timber structures and intricate […]

Belgian Architecture: A Mosaic of Heritage and Modernism

Belgium’s topography is a delicate balance between history and modernity. From Bruges’s medieval charm to Antwerp and Brussels’s bold contemporary structures, architecture here is a study in balance. Minimalism finds a profound expression where clean lines, raw materials, and seamless transitions define space. At OTIIMA, we are privileged to contribute to this evolving narrative, shaping […]

5 Iconic Projects Designed by Women in Architecture

Visionary minds have long shaped the architecture industry, yet women architects have fought for recognition in a male-dominated field for decades. Today, their contributions are undeniable, with groundbreaking projects that push the boundaries of design, functionality, and sustainability. This article highlights a few remarkable projects led by women architects that demonstrate their profound impact on […]

Liu Jiakun Awarded 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize

Chinese architect Liu Jiakun has been honored with the 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize, recognizing his contributions to contemporary architecture. This prestigious award, often called the “Nobel Prize of Architecture,” celebrates Liu’s work, which harmoniously blends traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern functionality. A Journey Rooted in Cultural Resilience Born in 1956 in Chengdu, China, Liu’s early […]