OFFICE is a Brussels-based architectural practice founded in 2002 by Kersten Geers (Ghent, 1975) and David Van Severen (Ghent, 1978). The two met while studying at the University of Ghent and at ETSAM (Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura) in Madrid.
OFFICE was established as a means of exploring the prospect of architecture within the contemporary culture and urban environment. While constructing a theoretical project of architecture, OFFICE has developed a practical and pragmatic approach to design, combining skill and cunning for an expeditious decision-making process, to make architecture as a civic obligation.
In parallel to this practice, OFFICE directed design studios at various institutions, including the Academy of Architecture USI, Mendrisio where Kersten Geers is currently a Full Professor, and Harvard GSD where he and David Van Severen together serve as Design Critics in Architecture. This educational activity &mdashand the various outcomes of research in design&mdash stands in direct relation to the work. and is documented under the moniker "Office Without Office".
OFFICE is a team of about 40 architects, organised as partnership led by Kersten Geers, David Van Severen and Jan Lenaerts, together with associates Justine Rossillion, Alexander Smedts, Jacopo Lugli, Inga Karen Traustadottir and Jelena Pančevac.