OUR APPROACH
Lo–TEK Office for Intercultural Urbanism is a design and science studio working between Indigenous knowledge systems and contemporary design. Our work begins with land, water, and ecology, using biocultural systems to guide resilient and regenerative design. Through this approach, we shape spatial strategies and material systems grounded in local ecologies for cities and landscapes.
Ancestral Systems,
Regenerative Futures
LONG-TERM VISION
Lo–TEK is an office committed to long-term thinking. Our work addresses climate change, biodiversity loss, and cultural continuity by advancing regenerative materials, landscapes and biocultural human systems. We design for endurance—supporting places that can adapt, regenerate, and sustain life over generations.
RESEARCH
Our research is grounded in field work, collaboration, and co-authorship with traditional knowledge holders and communities worldwide.
In-house expertise spans ancestral technologies, land-based practices, material systems, and living infrastructures that have sustained human and ecological systems over time. These practices inform contemporary design frameworks and spatial strategies rooted in long-standing ecological intelligence.
OFFICE
We live in a time of accelerating climate instability and ecological breakdown. Based in London and New York, the Lo–TEK office for intercultural urbanism works with cities, regions, and sites to rethink how landscapes function as infrastructure.
Lo–TEK is co-led by Indigenous and non-Indigenous designers and scientists, guided by a majority Indigenous Advisory Circle of knowledge holders and allies, ensuring cultural and ecological integrity in all endeavors.
Julia Watson
Co-director
Watson’s visionary work bridges Indigenous knowledge and design, inspiring creativity, pedagogy, and tangible, real-world impact.
Dr. Charlene Smith
Co-director
Smith advances green chemistry through ecological design, championing the protection of social, cultural, and environmental diversity.
Dr. Lyla June Johnston
Consultant & Advisor
Johnston integrates Indigenous science and Western research to advance ecological restoration, food system renewal, and cultural resilience.
CLIENTS
Lo–TEK collaborates with public agencies, Indigenous communities, cultural and educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and private partners across urban, regional, and landscape contexts. Our clients and collaborators share a commitment to ecological performance, cultural stewardship, and long-term resilience.
SERVICES
Our practice is structured around three core services that integrate Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) to advance resilient, culturally grounded, and climate-responsive solutions. These areas guide our collaborative approach from research and design to implementation and stewardship.
01
Research & Strategy
Biocultural site analysis, regenerative materials sourcing, climate resilience strategies, landscape systems assessment, and long-term planning informed by bioregional ecological performance and resource stewardship.
03
Advisory & Collaboration
Guidance for interdisciplinary teams, policy support, material systems advisory, and intercultural co-design processes from concept through implementation.
02
Design & Consultation
Landscape-led design concepts, water and ecological infrastructure strategies, and regenerative masterplanning.
