OOAK Architects

OOAK (One Of A Kind Architects) is an architectural practice founded by Maria Papafigou and Johan Annerhed. Their professional journey, spanning from Athens to Stockholm and back, informs a diverse portfolio of projects across various scales and typologies worldwide. Regardless of location, OOAK remains committed to a deep sensitivity toward the landscape and meticulous attention to the small details of everyday life.

S.M.: You began your architectural studies in Sweden and completed them in Greece. How would you describe the architectural differences between the two?

OA.: The key difference lies in the deep sense of community responsibility ingrained in Swedish culture, which extends to a profound respect for the environment and nature. When we moved from Sweden to Athens to complete our diploma thesis -focused on urban planning and social-commercial synergy- we were labeled socialists. In reality, our ideas were far more nuanced, emphasizing a society where commerce and public space support each other. We believe that true prosperity and sustainable development arise when private, public, and commercial interests align, creating a balanced coexistence that enhances overall quality of life. For us, architecture -at every scale- must serve the whole, preserve environmental integrity, foster synergy, and create the ideal conditions for new experiences.

S.M.: You began your professional career in Athens in 2004, relocated to Sweden during the financial crisis, and returned permanently a few years ago. How has the architectural landscape in Greece evolved during this time, and how have you adapted to these changes?

OA.: Looking back, we believe that the financial crisis played a crucial role in advancing the Greek architectural scene, elevating both its aesthetics and expertise. Challenging times often spark creativity, and in Greece, the crisis provided the space and opportunity for architectural innovation. Meanwhile, in other countries, the impact of the crisis was not as deeply felt. Given that tourism is a driving force of the Greek economy, the demand for high-quality architecture in hospitality and private vacation residences led to remarkable developments. It is particularly gratifying to see how architecture in Greece has evolved, both in quality and design, since we first left.

At the same time, we feel that our international experience enables us to contribute meaningfully to the conversation about architecture’s growing responsibilities in Greece. It is essential to approach terms like “green,” “sustainable,” and “bioclimatic” with greater honesty and humility. For instance, an underground building cannot be considered inherently “sustainable” without acknowledging the broader environmental impact of its construction. While it may be the most appropriate architectural solution, the narrative surrounding it must be more nuanced and truthful.

S.M.: You are working on a diverse range of typologies and scales across various parts of the world. What do you carry forward from one project to the next in terms of experience, and what remains constant in your work?

OA.: Our vastly different backgrounds have helped us recognize early on that there is no single architectural aesthetic that can be universally applied across various places and cultures. We always strive to create projects that are deeply rooted in their context, with references to their surroundings, rather than lifestyle-driven designs that could fit anywhere. We are also living in an era defined by uncertainty and a strong sense of responsibility for our future and evolution. Climate change and sustainability, at every level, are concepts that inform all of our projects. We are committed to approaching the environment with respect, contributing to the development of the location, and enriching the experience of its users. Additionally, what we bring to all of our projects is a commitment to “good practice,” especially from our international collaborations, which have been exemplary in terms of how design teams work- from the initial concept through to the execution of the project.

Read the full interview at the  277 | May 2023 ek issue.