Tosin Oshinowo

**Tosin Oshinowo** is a Nigerian architect, designer, and writer recognized for her significant contributions to contemporary African architecture, characterized by a design philosophy rooted in West African context and Yoruba culture. She is the founder and principal architect of Oshinowo Studio, formerly known as Ile-Ila.Early Life and Education Tosin Oshinowo completed her foundational architectural studies in the United Kingdom, receiving a Bachelor in Architectural Studies and a Bachelor in Design. She obtained a Masters of Science in Urban Design in Development (MSc) from the Development Planning Unit at The Bartlett, University College London, in 2003, and also studied at the Architecture Association in London in 2007. More recently, in 2022, she completed a Master in Business for Architecture and Design from IE School of Architecture and Design.Career Progression and Philosophy After completing her education in London, Oshinowo worked in Europe before returning to her native Lagos, Nigeria. Her perspective on design is shaped by her Yoruba culture and is focused on calibrating regional approaches to global social and environmental challenges. Oshinowo is a strong advocate for the importance of apprenticeship in an architect's development, believing that the process of practice and refining a design value system must be learned on the job. She established her practice, Oshinowo Studio (formerly known as Ile-Ila, which translates to "House of Lines" in Yoruba), where she has focused on translating her West African-rooted perspective into impactful architecture and design.Major Achievements and Notable Works Oshinowo's work spans architecture, interior design, and public art. Her notable projects often address community needs and contemporary living in Nigeria. One of her highly recognized works includes a collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to reveal a rebuilt Nigerian village for a community displaced by Boko Haram, showcasing her commitment to humanitarian architecture. In addition to her architectural practice, she is recognized for: * **Retail Design:** Designing the ADIDAS Flagship Store in Lagos (2023). * **Public Monuments:** Working on The Freetown Monument in Sierra Leone (scheduled for 2026). * **Academic and Editorial Contributions:** She is a respected voice in architectural discourse, having served as a Harvard Loeb Fellow and featured on the Elle Decor A-list. Her written work includes the essay "Conditions of Scarcity" in the Havard Design Magazine (F/W 23), an essay on the second Lagos Biennial of Contemporary Art, and "What architects can learn from Lagos" in *The Monocle Companion*.Current Status Tosin Oshinowo continues to serve as the Principal Architect at Oshinowo Studio in Lagos, Nigeria, influencing the global perception of African design and architecture. She remains an active figure in international architectural events, notably contributing to the Venice Biennial in 2021 and 2023.