O & A Architects Expands Its Presence in Hospitality and Experiential Design Across India 

O & A Architects, based in Mumbai, is gradually developing its reputation as a prominent practice in both the field of architecture and interior design in India. Founded by Obaid Hakeem and Afsha Rakhe in 2007, the boutique architectural firm has already designed a wide range of projects that include restaurants, cafes, boutique hotels, wellness retreats, and luxury villas in Mumbai, Goa, and other major areas.

The studio integrates architecture and interior design by focusing on material honesty and local craftsmanship. Following the philosophy that every space needs to organically emerge out of the local culture and region, the architects make sure that local conditions are reflected in every design solution.

Obaid Hakeem, who is Partner and Technical Director, is responsible for project delivery and client interaction. The integration of technical excellence and design philosophy creates a solid base where spatial logic and structural integrity are at par with creativity.

Partner and Creative Director Afsha Rakhe oversees the design aesthetic from her unique perspective of atmospheric creation, working with the perfect balance of proportions, textures, and bespoke details. Together with the partnership, they have built up a unique design language which is a product of the modern age and is sensitive to its environment.

A major focus for the practice is its work within the hospitality and leisure sectors. Whether designing a lively urban restaurant or a quiet coastal retreat, the team treats each brief as an opportunity to build a distinct environment with a personality of its own. The firm’s growing footprint in Goa highlights this approach, with designs that actively respect and celebrate the local landscape, history, and tropical climate

The firm of O & A Architects has total control in all its assignments, right from concept formulation to master planning to actual execution and finally interiors. This means that whatever clarity there was at the initial stages of design remains throughout till the completion of the construction. Alongside their commercial and residential practices, the studio is also actively involved in community-oriented designs.

In a rapidly developing country like India where hospitality and lifestyles are maturing steadily, O & A Architects offers itself to be one of those studios which believes in authenticity and good designs. As their portfolio expands, the studio keeps finding newer ways to design enduring and expressive spaces for people.