Nairobi - Madrid

STUDIO

Urko Sanchez Architects is an award-­winning Kenya and Spain-based boutique architectural firm renowned for excellence in design.

Tailor-made designs rooted in culture and environment

The firm is deeply committed to environmental stewardship, and for each project, the team considers the cultural roots of the structure, and how the building will be best integrated into its environment; the view, the indigenous materials, and the flow of the surroundings. Hallmarks of Urko Sanchez projects include contemporary twists on traditional architecture; a green aesthetic that harnesses wind and solar power and recycled water; and leveraging natural architecture to showcase natural light, and frame private gardens and open courtyards.

Our projects range in size, complexity and function. In all cases, however, the focus is on the client and the context, with a tailor-­crafted approach to each unique project. Commercial projects include hotels, office buildings, industrial spaces, and residential developments amongst others.

 

Our Methodology

Open minds, Creative spirits

Urko Sanchez Architects thrives in the dynamic contexts of Africa and the Global South by embracing unexpected environments and actively listening to clients and local communities. Their approach combines a strong international identity with deep local roots, ensuring that projects are both globally competitive and contextually relevant.

The team values open-mindedness, humility, and respect, blending new discoveries with their expertise. At their Nairobi office, they seek professionals who not only understand the local context but also have a global perspective—flexible, self-driven, and adaptable to ever-changing conditions. Creativity and imagination are central to their work, enabling them to envision and bring to life unique projects in remote and exotic locations. For instance, designing a horse house in Doha required close collaboration with specialists to address both functional and behavioral needs.

This diversity of experience and vision makes Urko Sanchez Architects a team committed to creating sustainable, context-sensitive designs that balance local authenticity with global sophistication.

The Journey of Urko Sanchez Architects

Urko Sanchez discovered Lamu, a small island on Kenya’s coast, and instantly fell in love with its charm. Instead of settling in Madrid, he chose Lamu as his home and professional base, where he combined his passion for design with a commitment to the local community. His first major project, Lamu House, reflected his belief in building ethical businesses that benefit both the community and the creator.

In Mombasa, Urko registered as an architect in Kenya and officially founded Urko Sanchez Architects. Early projects taught the team to work with local techniques, traditional materials, and vernacular architecture. One key milestone was the Tudor project, a reinterpretation of the traditional villa, blending privacy and connection to the environment.

From these beginnings, the studio expanded internationally. A chance encounter with an image of their work, Red Pepper, led to opportunities in the Middle East, including large-scale competitions in Saudi Arabia. Despite the challenges, the team stood out by focusing on local culture and vernacular design as their key strengths.

Throughout their journey, Urko Sanchez Architects has remained dedicated to creating impactful, sustainable designs that respect local contexts while reaching global standards.

Born and raised in Madrid, Spain, Urko Sanchez began his architectural studies in 1988. It took him 10 years to complete his coursework because of a huge passion for travel. “From the time I was very young, I have always loved traveling,” says Urko. “I’ve been in more than 40 countries.” From Canada to Argentina, from India to Africa, Urko has seen a great deal of the world. Consequently, travel has informed much of his life and his work – all of the colors and art and people and cultures he’s been exposed to adding to a sense of what Urko wanted to build for himself and others.

As part of his studies, Urko began participating in different architectural endeavors with NGOs in Spain and Nicaragua. “I had already started working before finishing university in 1998”, he explains, “collaborating on several projects as a volunteer. One of my first assignments was on the border of Somalia and Kenya. There was a lot of adrenaline in those early years.” Urko continued to offer his expertise in different conflict zones, including Bosnia, El Salvador and Angola where he spent two years. His participation always revolved around the field of architecture, building camps and schools and clinics.

Then Urko went to an island off the coast of East Africa and fell in love. “Lamu was a completely peaceful break from all of the high-conflict countries I’d been working in.

Urko Sánchez
Lorem ipsum dolor

We are passionate about social improvement, contributing as often as possible to projects that target disadvantaged communities with needful and innovative interventions.

We offer special conditions for NGO’s. For more info contact us here

Our Awards

Our Methodology

Lorem ipsum dolor