Urko holds a Masters Degree in Architecture (MArch) with 20 years experience in architectural services. Born in Madrid in 1970 and living in Kenya for the last 20 years. Urko Sanchez graduated from Madrid School of Architecture in 1998. After a few years traveling and working around the world, he established his own architectural practice in 2003 in Lamu, Kenya during 8 years. Then moved to Mombasa for another 5 years and nowadays have branches both in Nairobi and Madrid.
His long history of involvement in design and construction projects in Africa and Middle East, has led him to develop projects throughout the region (Ethiopia, Djibouti, Somalia, Sierra Leone, UAE…). His works have been awarded with several international prizes such as Young Architects in Africa, AAK Awards of Excellence, Archmarathon, Architecture for Social Gain, International Property Awards Africa, etc.
Urko Sanchez Architects is an award-winning architectural firm renowned for excellence in design and selected among the best practices in Africa.
Based in Kenya and Spain, the firm has undertaken projects throughout East Africa, Europe and Middle East.
The team at Urko Sanchez Architects is flexible, multicultural and boasts stellar local and international track records. Principal Urko Sanchez has a wealth of experience, having travelled extensively and accomplished projects in multiple contexts. Urko uses his broad experience to craft an innovative and versatile architectural outlook for every unique project.
Commercial projects have included hotels, office buildings, industrial spaces, and residential developments amongst others. Our projects range in size, complexity and function. In all cases, however, the focus is on the client and the context, with a tailor-crafted approach to each unique project. Above all else, the firm values client trust, and unparalleled quality in the expression and execution of its ideas.
Urko Sanchez Architects is also passionate about social impact, contributing as often as possible to projects that target disadvantaged communities with innovative and transformative interventions.
In addition, the firm is deeply committed to environmental stewardship, and for each project, the team considers the cultural roots of the structure, and how the building will be best integrated into its environment: the view, the indigenous materials, and the flow of the surroundings. Hallmarks of Urko Sanchez projects include contemporary twists on traditional architecture; a green aesthetic that harnesses wind and solar power and recycled water; and leveraging natural architecture to showcase natural light, frame private gardens and open courtyards.
About the lecture / September/30/2020 19:30 CET