Biography of Tosin Oshinowo,Early Inspiration and Career Choice
Tosin Oshinowo is a renowned Nigerian architect, designer, creative entrepreneur, public speaker, and author. Based in Lagos, she is celebrated for her innovative architectural projects, vibrant furniture designs, and commitment to fostering creativity and professional development within the design community.
Early Inspiration and Career Choice
Tosin Oshinowo’s journey into architecture was shaped by her early exposure to design and construction. Her interest was sparked by her creativity, a natural talent for technical drawing during high school, and her ability to understand architectural drawings from the age of twelve. Her father’s retirement home project further fueled her passion, as she frequently visited the construction site.
Education and Early Practice
After completing her studies, Tosin gained professional experience in London and Rotterdam.
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP, London (2007): She worked briefly with this prestigious firm.
Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA), Rotterdam (2008–2009): Tosin was part of a six-member team that designed the proposed double-decker Fourth Mainland Bridge in Lagos, aimed at connecting Ajah and Ikorodu.
Return to Nigeria and James Cubitt Architects
In 2009, Tosin returned to Nigeria and joined James Cubitt Architects. As lead architect, she worked on the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) projects, gaining valuable insights into stakeholder engagement in design. After four years with the firm, she established her own architectural practice.
CmDesign Atelier (cmD+A)
In 2012, Tosin founded CmDesign Atelier (cmD+A), an architectural firm that has since delivered notable projects, including:
Maryland Mall, Lagos: Dubbed the “Big Black Box,” this project exemplifies Tosin’s minimalistic yet impactful architectural style.
CmD+A has become a leading force in modern Nigerian architecture, blending functionality with innovative aesthetics.
Ile Ila (House of Lines)
In 2017, Tosin launched Ile Ila, a contemporary Nigerian lifestyle furniture brand. Known for its bold and colorful designs, Ile Ila’s collections incorporate traditional West African fabrics and Nigerian teak wood. The brand celebrates African heritage through vibrant and handmade furniture pieces. Nigerian artists such as Adekunle Gold and Chidinma have featured in the brand’s campaigns.
SHO-N-TELL Initiative
From 2009 to 2014, Tosin convened SHO-N-TELL, an annual event series at the University of Lagos. This platform brought together undergraduate and postgraduate students with practicing professionals, fostering knowledge-sharing and mentorship in architecture and design.
Recognition and Legacy
Tosin’s work has been featured in notable platforms, including the Visual Collaborative Polaris series in 2019. Her architectural style is characterized by minimalism, while her furniture designs embrace vibrant, expressive aesthetics. Through her practice, initiatives, and designs, Tosin continues to inspire a new generation of architects and designers in Nigeria and beyond.