Frequently Asked Questions

What does OBMI do best?

We are internationally renowned for design that is sensitive, unique, luxurious, appealing, and appropriate to its context. We create sustainable, innovative solutions that achieve the financial and aspirational goals of their owners.

What do you mean when you say you are architects of storied places?

Through research and exploration, we reveal the inherent character of each place. After uncovering the existing story, we use design environments to celebrate, elevate and illuminate it, creating authentic experiences that are uniquely rooted in place—and could therefore unfold nowhere else.

Why would we choose you over a larger firm?

Our advantage is that with our regional knowledge, we offer clients the best of both worlds. Through strategically placed office locations, we can share local insight and community connections, as well as referencing our breadth of global expertise to present broad perspectives that reflect international dynamics. Being able to combine a world of talent with local sensitivity is the secret to our enduring success. As well, we expand our reach through a trusted network of specialists who lead a range of fields.

How might you redefine hospitality for the next decade?

Travelers have a greater desire for privacy and personal space. They have new concerns for their safety, yet long for unique personalized experiences. We are using technologies to transform arrival and other experiences. Like the home, hospitality spaces are evolving to offer increasingly flexible spaces that do double duty. The wish to be immersed in pristine—even remote—nature is greater than ever. OBMI assigns teams to generate ideas for a changing world, to ensure that our clients adapt and thrive.

What do you know about sustainable design?

Our firm has lived and breathed it for over 80 years. Because our roots are in the sensitive Caribbean islands, environmental sustainability has always been top of mind—long before the term was in common usage. Our approach always plans for the best long-term broad sustainable outcomes—for the land, the water, the community and the culture.

Why should we consider you for our project?

If your project aspires to the highest echelons of its category, consult with an architecture and design firm at the top of their industry. If your goal is to create a differentiated and experiential destination that stimulates your guests, immersing them in the spirit of the destination, while surpassing your business objectives, let us show you what we have done for Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, Waldorf Astoria, Capella, Raffles, and others.

Don’t all architecture firms share a similar approach?

We respect our competition, but our ability to interpret and celebrate the story of a place is quite unusual. We weave our designs into the fabric of a region instead of just superficially painting the development as an overlay. Whether the project is a high-end resort, a private island residence, or an engaging urban neighborhood, our immersive process connects to the environment, culture, history, and economy of each place.

How innovative are you?

Innovation is our firm’s north star and we have a dedicated team to ensure that progressive thinking permeates each studio and every department. From design concepts to sustainability to defining the new luxury or bringing client presentations to life, we continually strive to be part of architecture’s vanguard.

How does your expertise impact your fee structure?

In many respects, we are a value story. The work we do focuses on fundamentally transforming people’s experience of places. As strategists and creative problem-solvers with deep expertise in the travel and hospitality industries, our approach elevates beyond just planning and design. OBMI integrates the business, brand and operational objectives into tangible outcomes, utilizing our deep understanding to add genuine value for our clients.

Will you curate a portfolio of projects chosen specifically for me?

We’d be delighted to. The first step of every successful partnership starts with a conversation to assess your goals. After listening carefully, our team will prepare a curated collection of our work relevant to your aspiration.

How can we get started?

Collaboration begins here. Please complete the form below. We look forward to getting to know you.