Office for Architecture

Since its founding in 2016 by Oliver Dubuis, Edward Jewitt, and Sandro Gämperle, MMXVI has continually refined its own approach to creating architecture. Often projects begin with an exploration of constraints, context, and its contribution to contemporary discourse. First, elements are defined that shape a fundamental principle robust enough to guide the entire design process and produce spaces that are truly exciting. This approach results in projects that are diverse in appearance yet familiar in how they are conceived.

MMXVI, our name, is both highly recognizable and, for some, a stumbling block. More importantly, it was chosen to unite diverse individuals under an abstract, almost brand-like identity—one that reveals nothing about its originators. In doing so, MMXVI claims authorship over its work, transcending individual contributions. Formed by multiple minds and strengthened by experts and collaborators, it represents a unified authorial voice. Operating as a cohesive entity, MMXVI collectively focuses on specific project phases before transitioning as a unit to the next task. This collaborative organism ensures consistency, intensity, and insight across a wide range of architectural questions.

Both must be fulfilled. They are essential to the success of every project.

We live in a culture where the new is often valued above all else, and consumption is driven by desires rather than needs. We have chosen not to participate in this cycle. Instead, our practice seizes every opportunity to identify existing values and build upon them, working within and alongside what already exists.The beauty of building and engaging with our past is not romantic; it is not about showcasing the old beam. It is about the complexity of different architectural ideas, developed over a long period of time and within a changing culture—both ideological and technical.

Projects capture a moment in time when technical frameworks and requirements align with their emotional counterparts, creating a balanced state. This state can then evolve along different paths—into a theoretical space, the built world, or not at all. We value all types of projects equally, approaching each with the same intensity and curiosity to achieve the best version of the initial goal.

Often, the defining elements of a project are subtle, sometimes even invisible. They don't immediately reveal the architect's intentions or thoughts, carrying a sense of mystery. It is within these aspects that a project becomes its most specific and compelling self. The topic of visibility shapes the character and impact of our work as a whole.

The size of a project doesn’t matter. However, the size of the team does. We work in a small, close-knit group where a collaborative, discussion-based approach generates the most important ideas. By establishing a system in which the team as a whole completes a task before moving on to the next, every team member engages with the full scope of the office’s work.

Our office began in a two-story room in the middle of a gated parking lot. Over the years, we’ve added more spaces, including a workshop, but we still call the parking lot home. Biel/Bienne has been, and will continue to be, a place of many unique opportunities, even as the office works on projects in other parts of Switzerland and abroad.

Without it, a building is just a pile of materials. Beauty is not necessarily just a superficial characteristic—although it can be in some cases. In its strongest physical or theoretical form, beauty has the capacity to evoke an emotional response, carrying an equal measure of depth and meaning.

New isn’t always better, but sometimes it is inevitable. There will always be cases where something needs to be imagined from scratch. In the discourse on current issues, it seems relevant to ask: what are the rules? How should this kind of task be approached to avoid becoming outdated or irrelevant? We are currently exploring this topic through a series of smaller projects, some with clients and some without.