Est. 2011 — London · Copenhagen
We build inlight & shadow.
We are a luxury architecture studio focused on creating spaces that endure. By combining rigorous restraint with material honesty, we craft environments that elevate the human experience.
“Restraint is the most enduring luxury.”
— The Studio Manifesto/ Selected Works
Recent commissions
01 — Residential
Casa Penumbra
A sprawling brutalist residence carved into the hillside, using deep overhangs and textured concrete to sculpt the intense Mediterranean light into livable volumes.
Marbella, ES · 2024 · 620 m²
Read the case study
02 — Cultural
The Meridian Pavilion
A public gallery and gathering space constructed entirely from mass timber and glass. The structure is designed to disappear into the surrounding forest.
Oslo, NO · 2023 · 1,900 m²
Read the case study
03 — Residential
Vantage House
Perched on a cliff edge, this minimal volume frames the Pacific Ocean through careful apertures, acting as an optical instrument for viewing the landscape.
Big Sur, US · 2022 · 430 m²
Read the case study
/ Now selling · Mallorca, Spain
Cala Ombra
Our first development: eleven homes cut into an olive terrace above a quiet cove. Designed by the studio, built with Mallorcan stonemasons.
- From
- €1.85M
- Available
- 7 of 11
- Complete
- 2027
/ Philosophy
We believe that true luxury is invisible. It is found in the perfect alignment of materials, the silent efficiency of space, and the way a room catches the morning light.
/ Capabilities
A single studio, end to end.
Architecture
Full-service architectural design from concept to completion.
Interior Design
Holistic interior spaces crafted with bespoke materials.
Master Planning
Large-scale strategic planning for estates and developments.
Restoration
Sensitive adaptation of historic structures for modern use.
Furniture & Objects
Custom pieces designed specifically for our architectural contexts.
Art Direction
Comprehensive visual narrative and styling.
/ How We Work
Four movements.
Dialogue
Understanding the site, the client, and the constraints.
Concept
Establishing the core volumetric and material truth.
Craft
Rigorous detailing and technical resolution.
Delivery
Execution on site with trusted makers and builders.
/ In Their Words
“Umbra didn’t just design a house for us; they crafted an instrument for living. The way the structure frames the landscape and orchestrates light throughout the day is nothing short of profound.”— James & Ruth Calloway, Owners, Vantage House
“Their uncompromising dedication to material honesty resulted in a gallery space that humbles the architecture to elevate the art.”
— Sigrid Halvorsen, Director, The Meridian Pavilion“Working with Umbra is a masterclass in restraint. Every detail is essential; nothing is superfluous.”
— Clara Whitfield, Partner, Ash & Oak/ Recognition