Building from Place: Inside the Work of RAMA Estudio
Exploring the community-centric architectural philosophy of the award-winning Ecuadorian firm RAMA Estudio.
1Foundations of RAMA Estudio
Carla Chávez, Carolina Rodas, and Felipe Donoso established RAMA Estudio after collaborating during their architecture studies in Quito, Ecuador. Over the past decade, the firm has gained recognition for its diverse portfolio, spanning housing, public spaces, and adaptive reuse projects. Their practice recently earned the ArchDaily Next Practices Award 2026.
2Architecture as a Service
The firm defines its core philosophy by viewing architecture as a service rather than just a design product. Every project begins by analyzing the specific circumstances of a location, extending the design process to include the people who will physically build the structures and those who will inhabit them for years.
3Deep Site Immersion
RAMA Estudio architects frequently engage in unconventional methods to understand their projects. In some cases, they have lived inside a house to fully grasp the neighborhood dynamics before initiating any transformation. This immersive approach ensures that their design interventions are deeply rooted in the existing social and physical context of the site.
4Local Material Integration
The studio prioritizes local craftsmanship and materials to enhance the sustainability of their work. A notable example involves building structures using earth excavated directly from the project site. By collaborating closely with local craftspeople, the firm reduces environmental impact while simultaneously fostering a sense of ownership among the local community members.
5Long-term Community Engagement
Their commitment to a project does not conclude when the construction phase ends. The architects have returned to an island community years after completing their initial housing projects to assess the long-term impact. This ongoing involvement demonstrates a dedication to the lifecycle of their buildings and the evolving needs of residents.
6Participatory Design Philosophy
Participatory design serves as the backbone of their methodology, bridging the gap between professional architects and local builders. By involving the community in the construction process, RAMA Estudio ensures that the final structures are culturally relevant and technically feasible. This collaborative model challenges traditional architectural hierarchies and promotes inclusive urban development.
7Adaptive Reuse Strategies
Beyond new construction, the firm focuses on adaptive reuse, breathing new life into existing structures. This approach respects the historical and social layers of a site while modernizing spaces for contemporary use. By repurposing buildings, they minimize waste and preserve the unique character of the neighborhoods where they operate.
8Future of Community Architecture
The recognition of RAMA Estudio by the ArchDaily Next Practices Awards signifies a growing industry interest in community-driven design. Their work highlights how architects can act as facilitators for social change. As urban environments become more complex, their model of place-based, service-oriented architecture offers a sustainable path for future global practices.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — Building from Place: Inside the Work of RAMA Estudio