UNUM Architecture has developed a reputation for work that goes far beyond structural problem-solving. Guided by the foundational belief that architecture is an active instrument in shaping the construction and way of life of a society, UNUM Architecture approaches each project as an opportunity to influence how people think, behave, and inhabit space. Recognized among the TOP 100 Architects of the World, the studio’s selection by Luxury Lifestyle Awards highlights the global relevance of its philosophy and the depth of its contribution to contemporary design culture.

A Philosophy Rooted in Human Behavior

Every project begins with the understanding that people give buildings their purpose. This perspective shapes the firm’s conceptual direction, prioritizing lived experience over aesthetic display. UNUM believes a building is never defined solely by visual or functional resolution. Instead, the team seeks a conceptual synthesis that balances beauty, project identity, and symbolic meaning. The goal is to create spaces that resonate with the individuals and communities who occupy them, encouraging environments that feel natural, intuitive, and emotionally grounded.

Founder Miguel Ibraim da Rocha reinforces this commitment with a clear vision for the discipline. He views architecture as an active force in shaping society and insists that the profession carries the responsibility to elevate human experience. People live, gather, work, and find purpose in spaces designed by architects, and for that reason, architecture must aspire to create an excellent quality of existence. His philosophy informs UNUM’s working process, influencing the way teams study context, interpret tradition, and anticipate behavioral impact long before a structure comes to life.

Honoring Heritage While Embracing the Contemporary

Portugal’s architectural legacy provides a rich foundation for the firm’s approach. UNUM studies this heritage with rigor, seeking to understand not only historical forms and tectonics but also how these built elements have influenced societal patterns across generations. This research-oriented method equips the practice to respond intelligently to modern challenges, ensuring that each project respects cultural continuity while introducing contemporary solutions.

By examining the behavior of buildings in relation to their users and environments, the team achieves clarity in both design intention and performance. This meticulous work allows UNUM to craft architecture that stands firmly within today’s context without neglecting the lessons of the past.

Projects That Reflect a Clear Design Ethos

The UNUM portfolio demonstrates an unwavering focus on the connection between architecture and behavior. The firm’s work spans multiple sectors, each shaped by contextual needs and user psychology. The Aveiro University Residence, known as “Student Haven,” showcases thoughtful residential planning for academic life, while the Alfena Parish Council and the House of Democracy of Valongo reflect civic identity and serve as platforms for community participation.

In the commercial realm, the Champagne Bar at the Musée du Louvre brings a refined spatial sensibility to a landmark institution, revealing the studio’s ability to design spaces that blend significance with atmosphere. Technology and innovation feature prominently as well, evident in the Metyis Technology Center, which demonstrates how spatial planning can support evolving digital industries.

Hospitality projects such as the Accor Matosinhos Hotel illustrate UNUM’s capacity to create environments that are both inviting and operationally efficient. Educational and cultural initiatives, like the Kastelo Association, further highlight the firm’s range and its skill in shaping spaces where learning and interaction thrive.

Across this diverse body of work, one principle remains constant: architecture must influence behavior in beneficial ways. Each project is guided by a careful understanding of how people move, feel, and connect within a space, resulting in built environments that serve both practical needs and symbolic aspirations.

Where Vision Meets Purpose

UNUM Architecture stands out for its disciplined, human-centered approach. With every commission, the firm demonstrates that architecture can shape habits, strengthen community, and enrich daily life. Their recognition among the Top 100 Architects of the World reflects the impact of this vision and the studio’s ability to merge cultural insight with contemporary practice.

To learn more, visit https://unum.pt