We are an alternative practice of architecture and urbanism engaged in social change.
Urban–Think Tank, as a practice, prioritizes people and place in its architectural projects.
Each project undertaken by U–TT is seen as a fresh start, an opportunity to try something new or improve on past attempts.
Our mission is to ensure fair delivery of social infrastructure across different regions, defining an architecture that encompasses a ‘meaningful totality.’ Our work is guided by the belief that successful products and processes require both words and actions. Informal settlements have been a source of inspiration and testing grounds for U–TT’s planning, building, and teaching efforts. A key lesson learned is the importance of addressing the political and social aspects of informality, not just the physical changes. This calls for a holistic approach to architecture that engages the local community and considers internal hierarchies, cultures, values, race, gender, and local aesthetics. As a result we have embraced an ethnographic approach to our design process.
Challenges such as financial constraints or local politics often mean that we can only implement one transformative architectural concept in a building, typically integrated into structural elements. Ultimately, U–TT believes that this approach is the most sustainable way to create positive social change through clear, distinctive architecture that can be replicated and adapted.
The Urban–Think Tank Design Group has a strong history of leveraging architecture and design to uplift disadvantaged communities worldwide. Our involvement in South Africa began in 2012 when we forged partnerships between local and international stakeholders. Together, we addressed the unique historical and social factors contributing to South Africa’s housing crisis. From this collective effort, U–TTE , a non-profit organization emerged.
At the heart of U–TTE’s work is the Empower Model. This innovative model is poised to redefine public housing in post-RDP South Africa and offer informal settlement residents in Cape Town and beyond not only decent, dignified homes but also economic opportunities.
Parangolé Magazine
Parangolé is an emerging annual magazine, sponsored by Urban–Think Tank (U-TT), that explores critical ideas on urbanization, design, and architecture. Featuring contributions from around the world, it delves into themes such as mobility, migration, fluidity, multiplicity, reflexivity, uncertainty, immersion, chaos theory, hybridization, diaspora, architecture of control, privatization, and heterotopia.
The magazine takes its name from the work of Brazilian artist Hélio Oiticica, embracing his concept of ‘life as movement’—a body dancing with the city. Through a fresh and evolving perspective on people and space, Parangolé responds to the urgent challenges shaping the future of global cities.
The inaugural issue, “Motherland,” is edited by Alfredo Brillembourg, Synne Bergby, and Ida Lien and published by Gran Horizonte Media.
Stay tuned for more groundbreaking editions each year!
The team
We are a globally united creative force.
We’re not just architects; we’re a diverse collective from around the world, brought together by our shared passion for innovative architecture and social impact. Our team members, hailing from different corners of the globe, bring unique perspectives and rich cultural influences to our projects.
We work together seamlessly to create designs that not only redefine spaces but also contribute to positive change on a global scale. This collaborative spirit is at the heart of our approach, ensuring that every project we undertake is a true reflection of our worldwide expertise and collective creativity.
U–TT Design Group
We are deeply committed to making a positive impact on society with offices in New York, Caracas, São Paulo, Bogota, Oslo, Geneva, and Cape Town.