FOUNDERS' Story

Without strong roots, there is no future

Our origins began in 2017, when both of our founders got the chance to help grow and democratize Gaudi's legacy, transforming it from academic to entertaining and fun.

Sofya grew up immersed in art and design, studied architecture (and later chose to leave formal study), and became determined to teach non‑designers to design. After diving into Gaudí’s books, archives, and expert recordings, she asked a simple question:
How did Gaudí achieve such originality without AI or the internet- and how can we teach that today?

Her conviction: creativity belongs to everyone, provided we build strong foundations and give people the right tools to create work that is unique, humane, and in harmony with nature and heritage.

Alex grew passionate about making history and culture both profitable and entertaining. He challenged the common perception that Gaudi is merely a tourist attraction in Barcelona, showing instead that Gaudi was a force for good who transformed Barcelona's fabric, an impact that could be replicated through other products and designs.
‍
His background in innovation, business, and entrepreneurship was crucial in developing a sustainable business model. Alex understood that for Gaudi's principles to flourish today, they needed evolution into contemporary applications that generate value while remaining true to their essence.

Together, we laid the foundations of what Originate Institute is today. Previously known as Gaudi Inspired and Inngenium Design Lab, we've prototyped and refined our programs and methodology over the years, from San Francisco to Tokyo, ensuring that what we design serves as an act of kindness for future generations.In developing Originate, we've carefully balanced tradition with innovation.

We believe that to create truly sustainable, human-centered design, we must understand our roots while embracing the future. Our journey has been one of continuous learning, experimentation, and growth—always guided by the principle that good design serves humanity and nature alike.

OUR PAST, PRESENT and more grounded FUTURE TIMELINE

Our story is one of growth, evolution, and unwavering commitment to design principles that honour both past and future

1926

A Legacy Begins

Antoni Gaudí passes away, leaving behind a timeless legacy of creativity, spirituality, and design rooted in nature.

2016

First Encounter

We connect with the Gaudí Foundation (then Gaudí Knowledge Association), sparking the seed of what would become Originate Institute (Previously Gaudi Inspired).

2017

Planting the Seed

The first ideas of the Origin8 Method are planted in San Francisco, blending Gaudí’s philosophy with design thinking.

2018

First Global Challenges

Gaudí Challenges debut at Google Campus Madrid, with Baidu in San Francisco and Microsoft, Renfe, Fundación ONCE, Astorga City Hall, and Universidad de León in Astorga. We co-host the Gaudí World Congress in Astorga and Barcelona.

2020-2022

Iteration & Research

Workshops and design sprints across the world refine and test the Origin8 Method with diverse communities.

2023

Global Stage

We co-host the Gaudí World Congress in Seoul, bringing Gaudí’s spirit into dialogue with Asia’s innovation landscape.

2024-2025

Deepening Roots

Seminars and workshops in universities and companies across Spain and Asia strengthen our reach and methodology. Gaudi inspired is rebranded as Originate Institute.

2026

Back to the Origins

During Gaudí’s centenary, we launch the Back to the Origins campaign and host the first Summit, uniting pioneers of culture, sustainability, and design.

2027–2126

100 Years Forward

The 100th Back to the Origins Summit celebrates 200 years since Gaudí’s passing. Our Greenhouse generates products, companies, and cultures that evolve society from its roots.

Without strong roots, there is no future

Our story is one of growth, evolution, and unwavering commitment to design principles that honour both past and future

“There is no reason not to try something new just because no one has tried it before”