About Us
OXO is a boutique architecture studio dedicated to crafting spaces that inspire. Our work spans from intimate residential projects to mixed-use, commercial, and public developments.
Rooted in years of practice, academic research, and design exploration, our philosophy blends innovation with timeless aesthetics. We believe every project—large or small—should be a work of art, shaping memorable experiences for our clients and the communities we serve.
At OXO, we believe great design starts with understanding. Each project should reflect the unique needs, character, and aspirations of its clients and users. To design better spaces, we immerse ourselves in the context, history, and community a project serves. Sometimes, it’s the personal stories of the people involved that shape the most meaningful architectural solutions.
We also believe that quality design should be accessible to everyone in every community. Thoughtful architecture has the power to shape a more harmonious, engaging, and dynamic world. Every built project should be a reflection of this commitment—ensuring that design is not a luxury but an essential element that enhances daily life and fosters connections. As a team of creative thinkers and designers, we are dedicated to shaping an inclusive, uplifting, and meaningful built environment.
X_WIP is the experimental research and academic wing of OXO, where design theory meets innovation.
Rooted in rigorous inquiry and computational exploration, X_WIP challenges conventions to redefine architectural possibilities. By bridging speculative research with real-world application, it fuels OXO’s practice with forward-thinking methodologies, ensuring each project is both visionary and grounded in expertise.
Jia Zhou Zhu, AIA
Jia Zhou Zhu is the chief architect of OXO, leading the studio with a design approach that seamlessly integrates research, innovation, and real-world application. Before joining OXO, he served as a project manager at Griffin Enright Architects and MAD Architects, two renowned Los Angeles-based firms. During this time, he gained invaluable experience across all phases of project delivery, from schematic design to construction administration. He led teams of talented architects and designers on a diverse range of projects, including bespoke residences in the hills of Bel Air, skyscrapers in Miami, and large-scale public developments in Saudi Arabia.
Born in Shanghai, a city where historic Eastern and Western influences converge with modern, forward-thinking development, Jia Zhou grew up immersed in a dynamic architectural landscape. His journey then took him to Vancouver and Toronto before he ultimately made Los Angeles his home, where he now raises his family. This diverse cultural background gives him a deep appreciation for the unique needs of every client. He understands how architecture can be a reflection of identity, lifestyle, and cultural nuances. With a keen ability to translate personal stories into spatial experiences, Jia Zhou ensures that every project is not only functional and aesthetically refined but also deeply meaningful to those who inhabit it.
In addition to over a decade of professional practice, Jia Zhou is a part-time lecturer at the USC School of Architecture, where he teaches design studios and computational techniques, exploring the intersection of digital tools and architectural innovation. His work is driven by a commitment to creating spaces that are thoughtful, meaningful, and transformative, shaping environments that enhance everyday life.
Chief Architect
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