Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects (LOHA)
Detroit and Los Angeles, United States
Founded in 1994 by Lorcan O’Herlihy, Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects (LOHA) is an internationally recognized architecture and urban design firm. Under O’Herlihy’s leadership, the firm embraces architecture’s role as a catalyst for change, operating with a clear awareness of the political, environmental, and social forces that shape the built environment. LOHA’s work is grounded in socially responsible ideals, whether providing housing in South Los Angeles, collaborating with grassroots advocates in Detroit, or partnering with design-driven clients such as Nike. The firm has completed over 100 projects across three continents, with work published in more than 20 countries and recognized with over 100 awards, including the AIA California Distinguished Practice Award and The Architect’s Newspaper’s Best North American Firm Award. In 2025, LOHA was named the world’s most innovative architecture firm by Fast Company.
2025 Biennial Project
Project Overview
Granville1500
Granville1500 transforms a former car dealership site into a mixed-use development with ground-floor retail, designed primarily as student housing for UCLA. The project reimagines the site as a pedestrian-friendly environment and offers a model for an urban village that shifts the focus toward community life. Pyramidal cutouts at the corners create shaded public spaces, widen sidewalks, and draw pedestrians into the site. The building incorporates naturally ventilated corridors, a stormwater management system, drought-tolerant landscaping, rooftop solar panels, bicycle storage, and electric vehicle charging stations.
Previous work
Project Overview
Venue
View moreChicago Cultural Center
Address
78 E. Washington St., Chicago, IL 60602
Neighborhood
The Loop
Description
Completed in 1897 as Chicago’s first central library, the building was established as the Chicago Cultural Center, the nation’s first and most comprehensive free municipal cultural venue, in 1991. One of the most visited attractions in Chicago, the stunning landmark building is home to two magnificent stained-glass domes, as well as free art exhibitions, performances, tours, lectures, family activities, music, and more – presented by the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and many others.
