LIVING ARCHITECTURE: WHERE NATURE AND DESIGN UNITE
In the world of architecture, there's often a stark division between buildings and their surroundings. Buildings rise from the earth as distinct entities, while landscape design becomes an afterthought—a way to fill the spaces between structures. At D/O Architects, we see a different possibility: one where architecture and nature exist in perfect harmony, each enhancing the other to create spaces that truly enhance human life.
A VISION BORN FROM TWO DISCIPLINES
Our approach to living architecture emerged from a unique perspective. Beginning in landscape architecture before expanding into traditional architectural practice, our founder Colin Oglesbay recognized a critical gap in how buildings were being conceived. The conventional approach treated landscape as an afterthought, missing countless opportunities to forge meaningful connections between people and nature. This realization led to the formation of D/O Architects, where landscape architects and architects work as one unified team.
OUR LIVING ARCHITECTURE PHILOSIPHY
At D/O Architects, living architecture isn't just about adding green elements to buildings—it's about fundamentally rethinking the relationship between built environments and nature. We believe:
- Buildings and landscapes should be designed simultaneously, not sequentially.
- Homes should serve as sanctuaries that connect us with nature.
- Living closer to nature improves health, happiness and longevity
- Sustainable modern design can create harmony between human needs and natural systems
COURTYARD INTEGRATION
We design homes centered around beautiful courtyard gardens that serve as the heart of the living space. These courtyards aren't mere decorative elements—they're central to the home's function, creating a seamless flow between interior and exterior spaces.
NATURAL CONNECTION
Whether designing a micro cabin in the woods or a condominium tower in the city, we prioritize framing beautiful views and incorporating natural materials. Our projects glow with the warmth of natural elements, creating spaces that feel alive and connected to their environment.
SCALE-ADAPTIVE DESIGN
Our living architecture philosophy adapts to projects of all sizes:
- Single-family homes with integrated landscape designs.
- Condominium towers featuring "pocket gardens in the sky".
- Micro cabins that blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings.
- Urban development's incorporating pastoral green spaces
TROUTBROOK CABIN
Nestled within a WPA pine forest, this 2,000-square-foot family retreat exemplifies our approach to integrating architecture with its natural setting. The cabin demonstrates how modest-sized homes can create profound connections with nature.
BAYSIDE RESIDENCE
This modern home showcases our courtyard-centered design philosophy, where landscape flows through the house, creating a continuous connection from intimate garden spaces to expansive lake views beyond.
GREEN AXIS PARK AND WATERWAY
Our vision extends to urban scale with projects like the Layered City concept near Seoul, Korea. This ambitious project demonstrates how living architecture principles can transform dense urban environments into vibrant, nature-integrated communities.
Our approach to living architecture delivers tangible benefits:
- Enhanced well-being through constant connection with nature.
- Improved environmental sustainability.
- Spaces that evolve and grow with their inhabitants.
- Reduced stress through biophilic design.
- Stronger community connections through shared natural spaces.
As we continue to push the boundaries of living architecture, our new commitment remains steadfast: creating spaces that unite people with nature through throughtful, sustainable design. Every project we undertake, regardless of scale, is an opportunity to demonstrate how architecture and landscape can work together to create happier, healthier lives.
At D/O Architects, we design with absolute attention to detail, creating places for families to love, live, and thrive. Our clients choose us because they share our passion for the outdoors and our commitment to sustainable modern design. Together, we're building a future where architecture doesn't just coexist with nature - it celebrates and enhances it.
