Architectural Cases

The De Nova Secondary School, designed by KPW Architecten in Leuven, Belgium, represents a significant advancement in educational architecture. Completed in 2025, this 1450 square meter facility was meticulously planned to foster an inspiring and dynamic learning environment for its students.

KPW Architecten integrated modern design principles with functional necessities, ensuring that the school building not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also serves its purpose as a hub for secondary education. The construction utilized diverse materials, notably steel, supplied by companies such as Arcelor Mittal, alongside products from Ebema, Orona | Ascensores, Recticel, Sapa Building System International NV, and Velux. These selections underscore a commitment to durability and contemporary building standards.

The De Nova Secondary School is a testament to the innovative spirit of modern architectural design, where form meets function to create spaces that actively contribute to the educational journey. The thoughtful integration of materials and design elements fosters an atmosphere conducive to intellectual growth and community interaction. Such projects highlight the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports future generations' development, emphasizing sustainability, creativity, and progress in educational settings.

The 'Rather Two' apartment, an 80-square-meter intimate living space nestled in the vibrant city of Bucharest, represents a profound dialogue between two distinct cultural narratives. Conceived by the architectural duo Anca Lungu and Kelvin Silva from OMAMBO, this project is a sensitive exploration of personal heritage and memory, skillfully interwoven into the fabric of its design. The apartment's aesthetic and functional choices are deeply influenced by Anca's Romanian background, characterized by symbolic motifs and lush natural landscapes, and Kelvin's Angolan roots, rich in ritualistic practices and earthy materiality. This harmonious blend is meticulously articulated through the selection of colors, textures, and spatial layouts, creating a home that resonates with a unique emotional depth.

OMAMBO Crafts Culturally-Infused Living Space in Bucharest

In February 2026, architects Anca Lungu and Kelvin Silva, representing the firm OMAMBO, unveiled their latest interior design masterpiece, the 'Rather Two' apartment, located in Bucharest, Romania. This 80-square-meter dwelling is a testament to the power of cultural integration in contemporary architecture. The design process was a collaborative journey, deeply personal for both architects, as they sought to reflect their respective heritages within a modern living context. Anca's Romanian heritage, with its deep connection to nature and symbolic artistry, inspired elements of fluidity and organic forms, while Kelvin's Angolan background brought in a grounding earthiness and a sense of ritualistic order. The project's material palette, including selections from Genuin, Muuto, Poemboem, ZigZagZurich, and Zonda, was chosen to complement these cultural narratives, ensuring a cohesive and meaningful environment. The apartment's completion in 2026 marks a significant achievement in blending global influences within a local setting, redefining the essence of home through personal and cultural storytelling.

This design serves as a powerful reminder that architecture transcends mere functionality; it is a canvas for identity and heritage. By weaving personal narratives into the physical environment, the 'Rather Two' apartment encourages occupants to reflect on their own stories and connections. It suggests that a home can be a living archive of memories and cultural expressions, offering a space not just for dwelling, but for profound personal resonance and continuous discovery.