- Interior
In the vibrant world of architecture and interior design, OOAA, founded by gifted architect Iker Ochotorena in 2011, has emerged as a dynamic team of professionals embracing residential and commercial projects worldwide. Their approach, rooted in understanding the unique context and aspirations of each project, creates architectural masterpieces that breathe profound substance.
At OOAA, the power of architecture is found in the art of carving out vacuums and volumes in noble materials.This careful action results in an architecture that embraces silence, where light rests and people find a refuge of shelter and emotion. The firm emphasises the 'vacuum', a concept that stands for that which remains in the middle, separates and disconnects. Here, it is not minimalism in the sense of little, but the art of the empty, the gap that connects spaces without visual noise. 
A recent renovation in central Madrid for a family with three young children offers a glimpse of the design firm's masterful approach. With a penthouse of around 500 m2 located at one end of the building, the team faced the challenge of avoiding long distribution corridors. Instead, three spaces (office, kitchen-dining room and family room) were strategically used as part of the circulation, avoiding unused corridors. A smart move that not only increased efficiency, but also brought cohesion and privacy by placing related spaces close together.
The use of wood on floors, walls and ceilings created an organic transition between spaces, contributing to a sense of separation and privacy.In line with the classic character of the building, they used large skirting boards and classic mouldings on load-bearing walls, enhancing the old character while keeping the visual aesthetic clean and ordered. Herringbone patterned oak floors and the use of lime mortar for walls and ceilings added craftsmanship and warmth to the house.
Ranging from in-house designs to antiques and contemporary items
The interior design was carefully rounded off with a selection of pieces that complemented the simple splendour of the architecture. These pieces, ranging from in-house designs to antiques and contemporary items, were chosen with a keen eye for simple shapes and harmonising colours. The overall composition exudes peace and tranquillity, with no single piece taking over and creating a harmonious whole.
OOAA is not just about designing spaces; it is an immersive journey to create a calm, protective and even healing atmosphere. Their projects transcend the boundaries of aesthetics and resonate with residents' deeper needs, making architecture not just a visual experience but also an emotional journey. 
Design and visualisation by OOAA and styled by Iker Ochotorena
Text by Elke Aerts