Atelier Switzer works at the intersection of architecture, material research and academia. Our work strives to balance refined simplicity with a distinct material, proportional and cultural presence.
Although international in their experience, the atelier approaches building culture at a localized level. Our work begins with the constructive, climatic and cultural realities of the given situation. And it is within these realities that we find the freedom to develop those ethereal qualities we call architecture.
With each project, there is the intention of creating healthy, lasting, meaningful places for people and our planet- a belief which extends beyond profit and ownership. For us, architecture is an act of conscious creativity.
Atelier Switzer was founded in 2011 by Karolina and Wayne Switzer. In 2012 the firm was listed as finalists in the BMW Guggenheim Lab. Their expertise in earth-based construction has led to collaborations with institutions such as EPF Lausanne and ETH Zürich, as well as numerous consultancies and lectures in Europe and the Middle East.
Since 2024 the practice is based in St. Gallen, Switzerland.