Designing in nature and from nature, in tradition and from tradition, in history and from history.

Designing in nature and from nature, in tradition and from tradition, in history and from history.

Working with Studio Onu is a journey.

Studio Onu takes its name from the Igbo word “onu,” which means mouth, voice, face, and threshold. In many Igbo expressions, “onu” is part of phrases that speak to presence, unity, and shared experience—such as ihu onu (seeing one another) or iso onu (being of one mind).

We see architecture as a form of dialogue: between people, place, memory, and material. Studio Onu is about designing spaces that speak, that invite exchange, and that bring people together.

While we are not Igbo ourselves, the choice of this name is a tribute to the power of language and community. It reflects our commitment to listening deeply and creating collaboratively—with humility, openness, and respect for the cultural contexts we draw inspiration from.

We try to learn about each client’s story and express it in the design. Their personality, background, passions, and dreams – this all has an impact and informs any proposal. The location of any project with its natural environment and locally sourced treasures helps to define and influence our work. We learn from the past by reinventing forgotten artefacts, viewing traditions through a new lens and celebrating the history of former generations. Architecture goes far beyond the physical walls. Our philosophy is to create designs with the potential to carry a narrative to the future.

Kuba Tomaszczyk, the founder of Studio Onu, is an architect and photographer. He was born in Poland, and, at the age of eighteen, he departed on a voyage that continues to this day. Kuba has developed a great respect for history and as he travels the world, he has learnt from the various cultures and the different traditions of the places in which he has lived. He is fascinated by how new architecture can bring the past back to life. Before establishing Studio Onu, Kuba studied architecture at the University of Bath and The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL, in London and afterwards worked for renowned companies such as Herzog & de Meuron in Switzerland and Behnisch Architekten in the US and Germany. Kuba obtained his professional qualification (RIBA Part III) from the Royal Institute of British Architects in London.

Studio Onu is based in Basel, Switzerland. It currently has projects in Poland and Denmark.

  • Architecture

    Our approach to building design is focused on creating spaces that carry narratives into the future. We believe that architecture is more than just physical walls - it's about collaborating to construct timeless environments that align with your lifestyle, history, and personal beliefs. Let's work together to bring your vision to life.

  • Interiors

    In our architecture, interiors hold as much significance as the external envelope. They create a connection between the internal and external environment, whether it's with nature or the urban landscape. To achieve this, we seamlessly blend the design with the surroundings with a thorough and considerate methodology.

  • Objects

    We seize every chance to craft bespoke items, be it a novel creation or a refurbished antique given a fresh perspective. In an era dominated by generic mass manufacturing, a unique table, a chair, or a lamp elevates to the status of collectable art. We hold firm in our belief that such endeavours are always worthwhile.