Philosophy

Office Other Walls (OOW) is a full-service architectural design firm founded by Jessie Vivian (Helgesen), known for crafting spaces that are both inventive and emotionally resonant. With a practice grounded in curiosity and care, OOW draws from unexpected sources beyond conventional architecture, resulting in projects that are as distinct as they are enduring.

At the heart of OOW’s work is a desire to make the ephemeral permanent — to capture a fleeting feeling, memory, or atmosphere and hold it within the built environment. Through thoughtful manipulation of material, layout, light, and spatial rhythm, the firm translates emotional experiences into tangible, inhabitable forms. Each project is approached as a chance to distill the mutable into matter.

In addition to architectural design, OOW leads research-driven speculative projects, landscape design, restoration work, and investigations into municipal history. Jessie and the team believe in the power of collaboration, finding joy in designing spaces meant to be shared, experienced, and remembered.

To inquire please email office@officeotherwalls.com