Our Philosophy
At Studio OTTO Architecture, we believe a home is a dialogue between history, materiality, and the rhythm of daily life. Our practice is rooted in the art of the intentional—creating spaces where simplicity meets tectonic elegance.
We don’t just design; we curate. Every project is an opportunity to balance architectural leadership with a collaborative studio culture. By integrating our deep expertise in metal fabrication and technical interiors, we deliver refined environments that resonate with a profound sense of place. From the initial sketch to the final structural detail, we guide our clients through a rigorous, visionary process toward architectural excellence.
Otto Ruano | Principal
AIA + NCARB
Otto Ruano is a design-driven architect who views the act of building as a meticulous craft. His career is defined by a unique duality: the precision of high-end fabrication and the vision of large-scale residential architecture.
Before founding Studio OTTO, Otto spearheaded a firm responsible for over 150 brownstone, townhouse, and residential renovations across New York City, alongside diverse commercial and hospitality projects. His foundational years were spent in high-end metal fabrication with the renowned Milgo Bufkin, where he collaborated with iconic figures and firms including Zaha Hadid, SHoP, Steven Holl, and SOM. This period of "thinking through making" allowed him to master the art of precisely manipulating materials to create intricate sculptures and large-scale installations.
Following his tenure in fabrication, Otto joined Ohlhausen DuBois Architects, contributing to significant residential and institutional projects for NYU and The New School.
A graduate of the Pratt Institute School of Architecture, Otto remains deeply committed to the evolution of the discipline. He has served on the faculty at Pratt since 2007, where he actively shapes the curriculum and mentors the next generation of architectural talent.
Our Studio Talent
Studio OTTO is a collaborative environment led by Otto Ruano and a hand-selected team of top-tier Pratt Institute graduates. Our team members represent the next generation of architectural leaders, having graduated at the top of their class with a mastery of both avant-garde design and rigorous project management. This in-house expertise allows us to maintain absolute control over the quality, schedule, and architectural integrity of every renovation we undertake.