BUILD Archtecture Awards 2025 Tropical Modernism is an architectural style that was developed in the 1940s, merging modernist design principles with the unique environmental and cultural contexts of tropical regions. It revolves around the fundamental principle of adapting the built environment to these regions, ensuring that designs respond intelligently to heat, light, and water while supporting ways of living. Championing Tropical Modernism is Cut Works Architecture, a pioneering Jamaican architectural studio renowned for creating modern, inviting spaces inspired by its surrounding tropical environment and Caribbean cultures. We found out more from David Cuthbert, Director and Principal Architect of Cut Works Architecture, below. Best Sustainable Architecture Studio 2025 – Jamaica Contact Details: Contact: David Cuthbert Company: Cut Works Architecture Web Address: www.cutworksja.com Based in Kingston, Cut Works Architecture is a small, diversified architectural studio working across a variety of project types – from residential homes and renovations to hospitality, educational, and wellness spaces. The studio offers full architectural services, including design, interior architecture, planning, project management, and construction administration. Driven by its deeply-rooted ethos, Cut Works Architecture opts to collaborate with clientele who are deeply invested in the quality and thoughtfulness of their built environment – those who believe that their projects will contribute towards facilitating social good. “What drives our work is the desire to design buildings that are both practical and beautiful, that respond to climate and culture, and that make a lasting, positive impact on the people who use them.” “We focus on contextual, climate-conscious design,” said David. “Collectively, our work is within the traditions of Tropical Modernism. It’s not a stylistic preference but a way of thinking about how buildings live in the Caribbean – how they deal with heat, light, and water, and how they support the way people live, work, and relax here.” Whether working with clients, consultants, or communities, Cut Works Architecture strives to make the process as thoughtful and inclusive as the final design. Every project is approached as a conversation – between client, site, and its intended function. Each member of the studio works closely as a team to remain responsive and collaborative throughout the entire project lifecycle, from sketch to construction. To further ensure that each project receives the focus it deserves, the project load is kept manageable and weekly internal reviews are held to maintain design continuity and quality control across all phases of work. “Like many small studios, we face the challenge of balancing capacity with demand – especially when the pace of construction and client needs fluctuate,” David told us. “We try to turn this into an opportunity by building strong relationships with collaborators and consultants, being flexible in our team structure, and choosing projects that align with our values.” At present, Cut Works Architecture is involved in two architectural projects that reflect the true range of its work, and the values that guide its design process, with the first being a recently completed Adult Daycare Facility in Kingston. A 100m² freestanding annex, this unique Jamaican facility offers a safe, engaging environment for seniors, featuring a shared doctor’s office and administrative space, a multi-purpose activity area, a quiet zone, and accessible bathrooms. Designed with natural airflow and abundant daylight, the completed project has created a bright, welcoming space that supports the wellbeing of the community. The second project is the Pimento International Academy, a new K-12 school campus designed for a small student population with a focus on global awareness, sustainability, and experiential learning. The brief called for Cut Works Architecture to produce an adaptable design within a tight timeframe, with the studio’s solution being to construct the campus using repurposed shipping containers – creating a modular system that minimises environmental and site impact. This project, while currently under construction, reflects both the design ingenuity and environmental sustainability under real-world constraints for which Cut Works Architecture has become renowned. For Cut Works Architecture, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of refinement, expansion, and thoughtful growth. The team has recently moved to a larger office, acquiring more space to accommodate the ebb and flow of project demands and team dynamics. Growing alongside this expansion is the studio’s ongoing mission: to grow steadily without ever losing its focus on producing quality spaces that emphasise contextual, climate-conscious design. “We’re continuing to work on exciting projects in wellness, education, and single-family housing, while also deepening our commitment to sustainable practices and regional collaboration,” David announced. “For us at Cut Works Architecture, sustainability is not just about systems and materials; it’s about how we design with care, intention, and a long view in mind. It’s about doing more with less, responding to climate and context, and creating buildings that support the way we live, work, and play.” May25205
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