women in architecture part two amplifies female voices

women in architecture: part two

The second installment of the acclaimed docu-series Women in Architecture takes center stage as it continues to explore equity and creativity in the built environment. Produced by Sky-Frame and directed by Boris Noir, this second part follows the journeys of architects Dorte Mandrup and Tosin Oshinowo, two professionals whose work bridges cultural and professional contexts. From Copenhagen to Lagos, the documentary reveals how their distinct paths converge in their shared challenges and transformative contributions to the field.

initiated by Sky-Frame, the second part of the acclaimed docu-series Women in Architecture takes center stage as it continues to explore equity and creativity in the built environment | all images courtesy of Sky-Frame

What is Women in Architecture?

Women in Architecture is a documentary series designed to amplify the voices of women in a field traditionally dominated by men. Launched by Sky-Frame, the initiative celebrates female contributions to architecture while igniting conversations about diversity and inclusivity. By merging personal stories with professional achievements, the series highlights how architects like Dorte Mandrup from Denmark and Nigerian-based Tosin Oshinowo are reshaping architecture. Premiered on November 12, 2024, this second part furthers the mission of encouraging women to overcome barriers and realize their potential in the field.

Dorte Mandrup graduated from the Aarhus School of Architecture in 1991 and founded her Copenhagen-based studio in 1999, where she leads as Creative Director and oversees all projects. Celebrated for her unconventional vision and dedication to advancing architecture, she has earned national and international recognition for her groundbreaking designs. Similarly, Lagos-based Nigerian architect and designer Tosin Oshinowo is known for her socially conscious approach to urbanism. Since founding Oshinowo Studio (formerly cmDesign Atelier) in 2013, she has focused on creating civic and residential spaces that emphasize equity, sustainability, and respect for both nature and cultural heritage.

‘one of the goals when you do architecture is to create moments that have emotional importance,’ says architect Dorte Mandrup

‘when women are involved in causes, there’s always more cause for inclusivity because a woman will think […] much further beyond herself,’ says Tosin Oshinowo

Architectural Journeys Across Cultures

This installment delves into the distinct trajectories of its two protagonists, uncovering the forces that shape their philosophies and practices. Dorte Mandrup, based in Copenhagen, is celebrated for her bold, innovative approach to architecture. Known for projects such as the Ilulissat Icefjord Centre, Mandrup pushes boundaries to create spaces that harmonize with their natural surroundings.‘One of the goals when you do architecture is to create moments that have emotional importance […] The more I got into the business, the more I understood that […] women were not taken seriously as equal parts of discussion of Architecture,’ expresses Dorte Mandrup.

Lagos-based Tosin Oshinowo takes a different yet equally profound approach. Her work is rooted in a socially conscious perspective, emphasizing sustainability, equity, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Through her studio, founded in 2013, Oshinowo designs civic and residential spaces that honor both community needs and ecological balance. Together, these architects demonstrate the transformative potential of diverse perspectives in architecture.

the vibrant streets of Lagos

The documentary distinguishes itself through its focus on personal narratives, offering an intimate glimpse into the lives of its featured architects. By spotlighting only two central figures, it creates space for a deeper emotional connection with viewers, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the nuances of each story. From the icy landscapes of Northern Europe to the vibrant streets of Lagos, the series goes beyond architecture to celebrate the human stories behind the designs. ‘When women are involved in causes, there’s always more cause for inclusivity because a woman will think […] much further beyond herself. […] The irony is that a lot of people probably think that women are the more malleable of the sexes, but I believe that if a woman really believes in a cause, she will fight for it to the death,’ says Tosin Oshinowo.

the icy landscapes of Northern Europe

‘the irony is that a lot of people probably think that women are the more malleable of the sexes, but I believe that if a woman really believes in a cause, she will fight for it to the death,’ adds Tosin Oshinowo

‘the more I got into the business, the more I understood that […] women were not taken seriously as equal parts of discussion of Architecture,’ exclaims Dorte Mandrup