A MATTER OF SCALE
A MATTER OF DETAIL
A MATTER OF SCALE
A MATTER OF DETAIL
A MATTER OF SCALE
A MATTER OF DETAIL
MATELIER
ABOUT US
MATELIER is an architecture studio based in Quito, established in 2012 by Michelle Herrera (1985).
Each project reflects a deep consideration of its conditions, resources, and its relationship with the city ans its site.
The studio is committed on addressing contextual connections with precision and dedication, offering users an experience that connects
the immediate and the everyday life,
the local landscape and the broader territory,
the particular and the universal principles of architecture.
MATELIER seeks to achieve scale, rhythm, and proportion in every aspect—whether in the streets, courtyards, terraces, corners, or balconies.
MATELIER is ultimately dedicated to the art of creating architecture.
MATELIER
ABOUT US
MATELIER is an architecture studio based in Quito, established in 2012 by Michelle Herrera (1985).
Each project reflects a deep consideration of its conditions, resources, and its relationship with the city ans its site.
The studio is committed on addressing contextual connections with precision and dedication, offering users an experience that connects
the immediate and the everyday life,
the local landscape and the broader territory,
the particular and the universal principles of architecture.
MATELIER seeks to achieve scale, rhythm, and proportion in every aspect—whether in the streets, courtyards, terraces, corners, or balconies.
MATELIER is ultimately dedicated to the art of creating architecture.
MATELIER
ABOUT US
MATELIER is an architecture studio based in Quito, established in 2012 by Michelle Herrera (1985).
Each project reflects a deep consideration of its conditions, resources, and its relationship with the city ans its site.
The studio is committed on addressing contextual connections with precision and dedication, offering users an experience that connects
the immediate and the everyday life,
the local landscape and the broader territory,
the particular and the universal principles of architecture.
MATELIER seeks to achieve scale, rhythm, and proportion in every aspect—whether in the streets, courtyards, terraces, corners, or balconies.
MATELIER is ultimately dedicated to the art of creating architecture.
PHILOSOPHY
Nowadays, there are multiple perspectives from which architecture can be generated.
Many of these perspectives are external to the discipline and, in the contemporary world, have often become predominant, adorned with adjectives that distance us from the true essence of architecture. In our Latin American context, for example, social and economic aspects prevail; globally, the focus often shifts toward sustainability and technology. But when was the last time we truly talked about architecture?
MAtelier’s practice has moved away from these discourses, not as an end, but as a result of understanding that architecture can be something more—something deeply connected to its own history, traditions, and principles. We view architecture as a craft, a discipline rooted in serious and committed daily work and study. We believe that solving issues should stem from the very problems of architecture itself.
The quality of our projects lies in the experience of space, its atmospheres, aesthetics, and attention to detail. Our commitment is, and will always be, to contribute to Architecture.
PHILOSOPHY
Nowadays, there are multiple perspectives from which architecture can be generated.
Many of these perspectives are external to the discipline and, in the contemporary world, have often become predominant, adorned with adjectives that distance us from the true essence of architecture. In our Latin American context, for example, social and economic aspects prevail; globally, the focus often shifts toward sustainability and technology. But when was the last time we truly talked about architecture?
MAtelier’s practice has moved away from these discourses, not as an end, but as a result of understanding that architecture can be something more—something deeply connected to its own history, traditions, and principles. We view architecture as a craft, a discipline rooted in serious and committed daily work and study. We believe that solving issues should stem from the very problems of architecture itself.
The quality of our projects lies in the experience of space, its atmospheres, aesthetics, and attention to detail. Our commitment is, and will always be, to contribute to Architecture.
PHILOSOPHY
Nowadays, there are multiple perspectives from which architecture can be generated.
Many of these perspectives are external to the discipline and, in the contemporary world, have often become predominant, adorned with adjectives that distance us from the true essence of architecture. In our Latin American context, for example, social and economic aspects prevail; globally, the focus often shifts toward sustainability and technology. But when was the last time we truly talked about architecture?
MAtelier’s practice has moved away from these discourses, not as an end, but as a result of understanding that architecture can be something more—something deeply connected to its own history, traditions, and principles. We view architecture as a craft, a discipline rooted in serious and committed daily work and study. We believe that solving issues should stem from the very problems of architecture itself.
The quality of our projects lies in the experience of space, its atmospheres, aesthetics, and attention to detail. Our commitment is, and will always be, to contribute to Architecture.
MICHELLE HERRERA
Michelle Herrera
Quito, Ecuador (1985)
Architect from Universidad San Francisco de Quito (2009), MFA in Urban Vision and Architectural Design from Domus Academy (DA), Milan (2012).
Co-founder of OBRUM Constructora and Founder of MATELIER - Michelle Herrera Architecture Atelier, where she explores design across multiple scales in architecture and interior design for residential, corporate, and commercial projects.
Faculty member in design studios at Universidad San Francisco de Quito (since 2014) and Universidad de las Américas (since 2012). Member of the Academic Commission for BAQ 2018: XXI Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito.
Panelist, moderator, and jury member in national and international competitions. She has received awards and distinctions in national and international competitions, including: Kyoto Global Design Awards 2024 on Real Estate & Office Development & honorable mention at BAQ 2020: XXII Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito for CORPORATIVO 194. Honorable mention for the Ornato Award 2013 for SANTA FE Corporate Tower.
MICHELLE HERRERA
Michelle Herrera
Quito, Ecuador (1985)
Architect from Universidad San Francisco de Quito (2009), MFA in Urban Vision and Architectural Design from Domus Academy (DA), Milan (2012).
Co-founder of OBRUM Constructora and Founder of MATELIER - Michelle Herrera Architecture Atelier, where she explores design across multiple scales in architecture and interior design for residential, corporate, and commercial projects.
Faculty member in design studios at Universidad San Francisco de Quito (since 2014) and Universidad de las Américas (since 2012). Member of the Academic Commission for BAQ 2018: XXI Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito.
Panelist, moderator, and jury member in national and international competitions. She has received awards and distinctions in national and international competitions, including: Kyoto Global Design Awards 2024 on Real Estate & Office Development & honorable mention at BAQ 2020: XXII Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito for CORPORATIVO 194. Honorable mention for the Ornato Award 2013 for SANTA FE Corporate Tower.
MICHELLE HERRERA
Michelle Herrera
Quito, Ecuador (1985)
Architect from Universidad San Francisco de Quito (2009), MFA in Urban Vision and Architectural Design from Domus Academy (DA), Milan (2012).
Co-founder of OBRUM Constructora and Founder of MATELIER - Michelle Herrera Architecture Atelier, where she explores design across multiple scales in architecture and interior design for residential, corporate, and commercial projects.
Faculty member in design studios at Universidad San Francisco de Quito (since 2014) and Universidad de las Américas (since 2012). Member of the Academic Commission for BAQ 2018: XXI Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito.
Panelist, moderator, and jury member in national and international competitions. She has received awards and distinctions in national and international competitions, including: Kyoto Global Design Awards 2024 on Real Estate & Office Development & honorable mention at BAQ 2020: XXII Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito for CORPORATIVO 194. Honorable mention for the Ornato Award 2013 for SANTA FE Corporate Tower.
NEWS
NEWS
NEWS
NOVIEMBRE 2024
NOVIEMBRE 2024
NOVIEMBRE 2024
Winner
KYOTO GLOBAL DESIGN AWARDS
Corporativo 194 was awarded at the Kyoto Global Design Awards 2024 in the Real Estate & Office Development category, highlighting its contribution to architecture, sustainable design, and global responsibility.
Winner
KYOTO GLOBAL DESIGN AWARDS
Corporativo 194 was awarded at the Kyoto Global Design Awards 2024 in the Real Estate & Office Development category, highlighting its contribution to architecture, sustainable design, and global responsibility.
SEPTEMBER 2024
SEPTEMBER 2024
SEPTEMBER 2024
Certification
USGBC LEED Certification
SANTA FE Corporate Torre Corporativa built in 2013, began a complete interior renovation following the guidelines of the USGBC. After 18 months, it is proudly pursuing the LEED cetification.
Certification
USGBC LEED Certification
SANTA FE Corporate Torre Corporativa built in 2013, began a complete interior renovation following the guidelines of the USGBC. After 18 months, it is proudly pursuing the LEED cetification.
MAY 2024
MAY 2024
MAY 2024
Jury
TRAMA: International call
Jury for the 30th International Call for the publication of final architecture projects in Trama magazine, composed of: Michelle Herrera (ECU), Rómulo Moya (ECU), and Juan Citroni (ARG). The selection was made from 74 participants across 10 countries.
Jury
TRAMA: International call
Jury for the 30th International Call for the publication of final architecture projects in Trama magazine, composed of: Michelle Herrera (ECU), Rómulo Moya (ECU), and Juan Citroni (ARG). The selection was made from 74 participants across 10 countries.
APRIL 2024
APRIL 2024
APRIL 2024
Speaker
PECHA KUCHA: Soy Arquitecta, Ecuador
On April 11, PechaKucha Night Quito Vol. 18 was held at the Arts Hall of the College of Architects of Pichincha (CAE-P). The speakers shared their experiences in creating architectural projects and their visions for the profession.
Speaker
PECHA KUCHA: Soy Arquitecta, Ecuador
On April 11, PechaKucha Night Quito Vol. 18 was held at the Arts Hall of the College of Architects of Pichincha (CAE-P). The speakers shared their experiences in creating architectural projects and their visions for the profession.
2021
2021
2021
Speaker
Uruguayan Architects in Ecuador
Contemporary Architecture: Banking and Corporate Architecture in Ecuador Gomez Platero (UY), Rafael Vélez (EC), Michelle Herrera (EC)
Speaker
Uruguayan Architects in Ecuador
Contemporary Architecture: Banking and Corporate Architecture in Ecuador Gomez Platero (UY), Rafael Vélez (EC), Michelle Herrera (EC)
2020
2020
2020
Guest Professional
BAQ XXII: Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito 2020
HOUSE & ATELIER: Conversation with Momoyo Kaijima
MATELIER was the guest professional for the analysis and discussion with Momoyo Kaijima from Atelier Bow-Wow (JP). The conversation included authors, critics, professionals, and architecture students as participants.
Guest Professional
BAQ XXII: Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito 2020
HOUSE & ATELIER: Conversation with Momoyo Kaijima
MATELIER was the guest professional for the analysis and discussion with Momoyo Kaijima from Atelier Bow-Wow (JP). The conversation included authors, critics, professionals, and architecture students as participants.
2018
2018
2018
Academic Committee
Guest Professional
BAQ XXI: Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito 2018
FUJI KINDERGARTEN: Conversation with Takaharu Tezuka
Michelle was the guest professional for the analysis and discussion with Takaharu Tezuka from Tezuka Architects (JP). The conversation included authors, critics, professionals, and architecture students as participants.
Academic Committee
Guest Professional
BAQ XXI: Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito 2018
FUJI KINDERGARTEN: Conversation with Takaharu Tezuka
Michelle was the guest professional for the analysis and discussion with Takaharu Tezuka from Tezuka Architects (JP). The conversation included authors, critics, professionals, and architecture students as participants.
2018
2018
2018
BAQ-EC Coordinator
CARLO SCARPA & JAPON
During BAQ 2018 week, the temporary exhibition of CARLO SCARPA & JAPON from the Museo Nazionale delle Arti del XXI secolo was opened to the public in Ecuador at the Contemporary Art Center in Quito.
BAQ-EC Coordinator
CARLO SCARPA & JAPON
During BAQ 2018 week, the temporary exhibition of CARLO SCARPA & JAPON from the Museo Nazionale delle Arti del XXI secolo was opened to the public in Ecuador at the Contemporary Art Center in Quito.
2017
2017
2017
Academic Committee
BAQ XXI: Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito 2018
Michelle Herrera, along with María Samaniego, Yadhira Álvarez, José Miguel Mantilla, and Omar Chamorro, are part of the Academic Committee of the Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito 2018. A major event celebrating its 40th Anniversary.
Academic Committee
BAQ XXI: Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito 2018
Michelle Herrera, along with María Samaniego, Yadhira Álvarez, José Miguel Mantilla, and Omar Chamorro, are part of the Academic Committee of the Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito 2018. A major event celebrating its 40th Anniversary.
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
2020
2020
Winner (Corporativo 194)
Winner (Corporativo 194)
Winner (Corporativo 194)
KYOTO GLOBAL DESIGN AWARDS
Corporativo 194 was awarded at the Kyoto Global Design Awards 2024 in the Real Estate & Office Development category, highlighting its contribution to architecture, sustainable design, and global responsibility.
KYOTO GLOBAL DESIGN AWARDS
Corporativo 194 was awarded at the Kyoto Global Design Awards 2024 in the Real Estate & Office Development category, highlighting its contribution to architecture, sustainable design, and global responsibility.
KYOTO GLOBAL DESIGN AWARDS
Corporativo 194 was awarded at the Kyoto Global Design Awards 2024 in the Real Estate & Office Development category, highlighting its contribution to architecture, sustainable design, and global responsibility.
2020
2020
Honorable Mention
Honorable Mention
Honorable Mention
BAQ XXII: Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito 2020
National Awards
Project: Corporativo 194
BAQ XXII: Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito 2020
National Awards
Project: Corporativo 194
BAQ XXII: Pan-American Biennial of Architecture of Quito 2020
National Awards
Project: Corporativo 194
2020
2020
LEED Platinum Certification
LEED Platinum Certification
LEED Platinum Certification
USGBC
Project: Corporativo 194
USGBC
Project: Corporativo 194
USGBC
Project: Corporativo 194
2018
2018
Honorable Mention
Honorable Mention
Honorable Mention
Quito: Ornate Award
Project: SANTA FE Torre Corporativa
Quito: Ornate Award
Project: SANTA FE Torre Corporativa
Quito: Ornate Award
Project: SANTA FE Torre Corporativa
PUBLICATIONS
2024
ARQUITECTAS Ecuador / Women in Architecture, Ecuador
Trama ediciones. Book.
ARQUITECTAS Ecuador / Women in Architecture, Ecuador
Trama ediciones. Book.
ARQUITECTAS Ecuador / Women in Architecture, Ecuador
Trama ediciones. Book.
2023
Y.A.P.A. What is NOT Architecture?
Trama Journal of Architectural Theory and Criticism
Faculty of Architecture and Design, University of the Americas. Essay
Y.A.P.A. What is NOT Architecture?
Trama Journal of Architectural Theory and Criticism
Faculty of Architecture and Design, University of the Americas. Essay
Y.A.P.A. What is NOT Architecture?
Trama Journal of Architectural Theory and Criticism
Faculty of Architecture and Design, University of the Americas. Essay
2022
TRAMA 170 INHABIT: function & form
Project: COELHO Living. Architecture Journal
TRAMA 170 INHABIT: function & form
Project: COELHO Living. Architecture Journal
TRAMA 170 INHABIT: function & form
Project: COELHO Living. Architecture Journal
2021
Arquitectura XXI / Architecture XXI
TRAMA ediciones. Book
Arquitectura XXI / Architecture XXI
TRAMA ediciones. Book
Arquitectura XXI / Architecture XXI
TRAMA ediciones. Book
2020
TRAMA 155 High rise buildings: Multiple Typologies
Project: CORPORATIVO 194. Architecture Journal
TRAMA 155 High rise buildings: Multiple Typologies
Project: CORPORATIVO 194. Architecture Journal
TRAMA 155 High rise buildings: Multiple Typologies
Project: CORPORATIVO 194. Architecture Journal
2018
Arquitectura: Patrimonio Moderno
TRAMA Dossier by the School of Architects in Ecuador The dot, the line and the plane in the architecture of Carlo Scarpa. Essay
Arquitectura: Patrimonio Moderno
TRAMA Dossier by the School of Architects in Ecuador The dot, the line and the plane in the architecture of Carlo Scarpa. Essay
Arquitectura: Patrimonio Moderno
TRAMA Dossier by the School of Architects in Ecuador The dot, the line and the plane in the architecture of Carlo Scarpa. Essay
t(h)ree, a pavillion
Cumbaya, 2023. Photo credits: Jorge Luis Narvaez
t(h)ree, a pavillion
Cumbaya, 2023. Photo credits: Jorge Luis Narvaez
t(h)ree, a pavillion
Cumbaya, 2023. Photo credits: Jorge Luis Narvaez
t(h)ree, a pavillion
Cumbaya, 2023. Photo credits: Jorge Luis Narvaez
