Forces Joined

Philadelphia-based Olaya Studio and BWA architecture + planning have joined forces under the new name O Z Collaborative (OZC). O Z Collaborative will continue to serve the higher education and K-12, commercial, cultural + civic, religious, multi-family, and historic markets in the Mid-Atlantic region. In addition to providing their core services of architecture, planning, and interiors, the new partnership enables both parties to complement each other in a synergistic way,, enhancing their designs, technology, and sustainability.

O Z Collaborative creates beautiful spaces that reflect the best of contemporary society. They fill their designs with life, passion, and excitement through the thoughtful use of light, space, and materials. Their design process draws inspiration from the beauty of the natural environment as well as forward-looking technologies. They involve their clients in the design process from conceptualization through occupancy, listening to and learning from their desires, concerns, motivations, and goals.

Both Olaya Studio and BWA have over 35 years of combined architectural design expertise and have designed numerous noteworthy projects. Olaya Studio’s projects include Drexel University’s Stratton Hall, Temple University’s Gladfelter Hall, Ahmadiyya Mosque, Equal Measure, and 3675 Market Street (University City Science Center), supporting lead architect ZGF Architects.

BWA architecture + planning have been recognized over the last 30 years for it’s experience in renovation and restoration to new construction projects including the John & Maryanne Post Learning Commons at St. Joseph’s University, Connelly House - LEED Supportive Housing for Project Home and Bethesda Project, the Salus University Learning Center, the School District of Philadelphia’s Dobbins High School, and Temple Rodeph Shalom sanctuary restoration.

O Z Collaborative will be led by the combined leadership of Richard Olaya, AIA and Morris Zimmerman, AIA, LEED AP bd+c and headquartered in West Philadelphia making it convenient to provide expedient and quality service to surrounding institutions.