ATO Architects
An indigenous architectural practice

Where we started, what we do

Founded in 1987 after winning a design competition for the squash court complex at Ikoyi Club 1938, ATO Architects has grown from its early work with financial institutions into a multidisciplinary firm with a portfolio spanning commercial, institutional, and residential sectors. Operating across Africa, the UK, and Europe, we deliver end-to-end solutions through our specialised subsidiaries — AT & D Estates, ATO Properties, and ATO Studios. These entities allow us to function as architects, developers, builders, and strategic property partners, offering services from affordable housing and turnkey projects to the development, sale, and management of residential and commercial properties.

We also provide a broad range of facility management services — including condition surveys, maintenance audits, and full management of hard and soft services such as electrical and mechanical systems, civil works, landscaping, and general support. Our integrated approach ensures quality, efficiency, and long-term value across the Built Environment.

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Continous Technological Innovation

At ATO Architects, we are committed to integrating cutting-edge technology into every aspect of our work. Our design process now incorporates tools such as D5 Render, Building Information Modelling (BIM), 3D printing, Virtual Reality (VR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance visualisation, accuracy, collaboration, and project delivery. These technologies help us deliver faster, more standardised, and precision-driven outcomes for our clients.

Innovation has always been part of our DNA. We were among the first architectural firms in Africa to adopt CAD back in 1994, and have continued to challenge convention — from our early design breakthroughs like the reimagined staircore at 149 Awolowo Road, to today’s AI-assisted workflows that push the boundaries of what's possible in architecture.

Importance of our Standards

In 1994, we laid the groundwork for design excellence by adopting a Total Quality Management (TQM) approach. This long-standing commitment to quality was formally recognised in 2018 when we achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification through Bureau Veritas. We are proud to have successfully renewed this certification in 2025, completing our external audit with zero non-conformities — a testament to our team's dedication to maintaining high standards.

Looking ahead, we’re building on this momentum by working towards ISO 19650:2018 compliance for BIM processes and developing a robust Standards Library to streamline collaboration and enhance project delivery.

Sustainability at our core

As early as 1997, while designing the office complex for the Nigerian Conservation Foundation in Lekki, Lagos, we began incorporating sustainability principles well ahead of industry trends — including elevating the structure on foundation pads and integrating solar panels. This forward-thinking approach predated the widespread adoption of green architecture.

Today, our commitment to sustainable design continues, with two of our partners, Ekaete Bassey and Ugo Chris-Aluta, holding LEED accreditation alongside their professional licensure as architects.

ATO Architects Limited

Contact

info@atoarchitects.com
09060000152

Location

Lagos Office: 12 Ladi Alakija Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, Nigeria

Abuja Office: Suite A3, Tsukunda House, Plot 1446, Central Business District