About
ROK is an architecture office based in Zurich. We understand architecture as the creative translation of complex requirements into bespoke projects. Our work, spanning from small-scale interiors to large-span structures, is united by a distinct expertise in algorithmic design and digital fabrication. We combine this knowledge with a deep understanding of construction, materials and craftsmanship to develop ecologically and economically sustainable projects.
Michael Knauß
Michael Knauß is a founding partner of ROK. He studied architecture at the ETH Zurich and the University of Stuttgart where he earned his Dipl.-Ing. degree in 2007. He worked at the Chair for Architecture and Digital Fabrication at the ETH Zurich where he headed several research and teaching projects. His work at the ETH Zurich was widely published and exhibited internationally. Michael gained design experience during his studies in the offices of UNStudio (Amsterdam, 2007) and Gramazio & Kohler (Zürich, 2006) and as a professional at LAVA (Stuttgart, 2007). He has given lectures at various academic institutions including IAAC Barcelona, the Harvard GSD and the USI in Mendrisio.
Silvan Oesterle
Silvan Oesterle is a founding partner of ROK, an architect, and researcher specializing in computational design and digital fabrication. Since 2014, he has been a lecturer at the Accademia di architettura di Mendrisio. After graduating from ETH Zurich in 2007, Silvan joined the Faculty of Architecture at ETH, where he conducted research with Professors Gramazio & Kohler until 2013. His professional experience includes roles at UNStudio in Amsterdam, Gramazio & Kohler in Zurich, and Riarch in New York. Silvan is a frequent lecturer at institutions and conferences, including the Architectural Association, CITA, and Smart Geometry. In 2012, he and his team at ETH were awarded the Global Holcim Innovation Award for the TailorCrete research project.
Former colaborators
Konrad Graser (2022), Miguel Sumpsi (2020), Thomas Doleschel (2019), Ryan Hughes (2018), Dana Andronescu (2018), Sarah Dushi (2017), Szabolcs Bordas (2016), Tudor Munteanu (2015), Julius Braun (2015), Leronard Kocan (2015), Matthias Rippmann (2015), Fabio Amicarelli (2013)