loading video...

sky-frame's series 'women in architecture' amplifies female voices from copenhagen to lagos

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.

sky-frame's series 'women in architecture' amplifies female voices from copenhagen to lagos
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. 

sky-frame's series 'women in architecture' amplifies female voices from copenhagen to lagos
‘one of the goals when you do architecture is to create moments that have emotional importance,’ says architect Dorte Mandrup

sky-frame's series 'women in architecture' amplifies female voices from copenhagen to lagos
‘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.

sky-frame's series 'women in architecture' amplifies female voices from copenhagen to lagos
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.

sky-frame's series 'women in architecture' amplifies female voices from copenhagen to lagos
the icy landscapes of Northern Europe

 

 

sky-frame-women-in-architecture-designboom14

Ilulissat Icefjord Centre by Dorte Mandrup

 

Through its evocative cinematography and narrative depth, Women in Architecture emphasizes the universal struggles and triumphs of its subjects. The series sheds light on the obstacles women face within the profession and broader societal contexts, offering a moving exploration of resilience, creativity, and determination.

 

With its global perspective, the series transcends geographic and cultural boundaries to reveal shared truths about ambition, persistence, and the power of architecture to shape lives. From the joy of building users to the pride of creators, the documentary captures the lasting impact of architectural work.

sky-frame's series 'women in architecture' amplifies female voices from copenhagen to lagos
by showcasing diversity and equity in architecture, Women in Architecture broadens perspectives and ensures that the built environment reflects and serves all communities

sky-frame-women-in-architecture-designboom17

the series goes beyond architecture to celebrate the human stories behind the designs.

sky-frame's series 'women in architecture' amplifies female voices from copenhagen to lagos
‘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

sky-frame's series 'women in architecture' amplifies female voices from copenhagen to lagos
‘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

sky-frame's series 'women in architecture' amplifies female voices from copenhagen to lagos
through its evocative cinematography and narrative depth, Women in Architecture emphasizes the universal struggles and triumphs of its subjects

 

 

project info:

title: Women in Architecture – Part 2

producer: Sky-Frame | @skyframe_global

director: Borís Noir | @borisnoir

featured architects: Dorte Mandrup (Copenhagen, Denmark); Tosin Oshinowo (Lagos, Nigeria)

release date: November 12, 2024

full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vvgVxzZazA&t=2s

KEEP UP WITH OUR DAILY AND WEEKLY NEWSLETTERS
suscribe on designboom
- see sample
- see sample
suscribe on designboom

architecture in denmark (223)

architecture in nigeria (10)

documentaries (32)

dorte mandrup arkitekter (18)

sky-frame (8)

PRODUCT LIBRARY

a diverse digital database that acts as a valuable guide in gaining insight and information about a product directly from the manufacturer, and serves as a rich reference point in developing a project or scheme.

interview: OMA unpacks the renovated design of museo egizio's gallery of the kings in turin Nov 24, 2024
interview: OMA unpacks the renovated design of museo egizio's gallery of the kings in turin
designboom speaks to OMA’s david gianotten, andreas karavanas, and collaborating architect andrea tabocchini, about the redesign of the recently-unveiled gallery.
X
5