Lou Arencibia

founder of OLA

previously senior landscape designer at BIG

previously architect at OMA

Lou Arencibia, PLA, comes from a cross-disciplinary design background of architecture, landscape, and interiors. Originally trained as an architect, he entered the profession of landscape architecture in 2005 to further explore the relationships between the two disciplines. His academic experience combined with 15 years of professional experience has further reinforced these interests. He believes that the constant shift from macro to micro perspectives informs a richer, more complex dialogue between the two, positively impacting our built environment.

Prior to founding the studio, Lou worked at a variety of acclaimed architecture and landscape architecture firms, where he oversaw the design and development of major award-winning projects in the United States and abroad.

Most recently, Lou worked as a senior landscape designer at Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) in New York, an internationally acclaimed architecture, urban and landscape design firm. At BIG he led the landscape design of Audemars Piguet Hotel Des Horlogers in Le Brassus, Switzerland, currently under construction. Adjacent to the Musee Atelier, the project re-imagines the Audemars Piguet’s complex introducing a series of sloping roof garden terraces that lead to the large scenic valley of Vallee de Joux.