Studio MK27, founded by Marcio Kogan in the early 1980s, is one of Brazil’s most prestigious design firms. Originally a filmmaker, Marcio transitioned fully into architecture after his first feature film. His cinematic background influences the studio’s designs, incorporating widescreen proportions, lighting techniques, and a strong emphasis on storytelling. MK27 blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, achieving a harmonious balance between built structures and their natural surroundings.
In this masterclass, Marcio Kogan and Executive Director Mariana shared insights into their design philosophy, project development, and material selection process. They highlighted the importance of emotion in architecture, comparing it to scriptwriting—where details subtly guide spatial experiences. The selection of materials begins early in the process, with architectural and interior design integrated seamlessly. Their projects emphasize timelessness, functionality, and a deep connection to Brazilian modernism and Bossa Nova aesthetics.
Discussing teamwork, Marcio explained that MK27 maintains a stable core team, with most architects working together for over a decade. They prioritize collaboration, respecting each member’s role while fostering creativity. Their approach to competitions, such as the “Flying River” project, combines architecture with storytelling to address critical global issues. Marcio advises aspiring designers to explore diverse fields—film, fashion, literature, and art—to cultivate a rich, multidisciplinary perspective, emphasizing patience and continuous learning as essential to success.
