A design-build studio in Erbil.

At Obsidian, we believe exceptional architecture is more than creating beautiful spaces. It is about transforming ambitious visions into meaningful environments through thoughtful design, technical precision and uncompromising attention to detail.

Visualisation: a piece of black obsidian with a flaked blade edge on one side and a mirror-polished face on the other
Visualisation

Based in Erbil, Obsidian is a multidisciplinary design-build studio specialising in architecture, interior and exterior design, construction and visual identity. We bring creative thinking and practical expertise together to deliver cohesive solutions that balance aesthetics, functionality and enduring quality.

Our approach is built on a simple principle: great design and great execution should never be separated. From the earliest concept and architectural drawings to material selection, construction and final finishing, every stage is guided by one unified vision and one responsible team.

We understand that every project represents an investment, an ambition and a personal story. That is why we approach each space with purpose, ensuring that every proportion, material and detail contributes to a result that reflects the people who experience it.

Why obsidian

Inspired by the strength and precision of obsidian volcanic glass, our philosophy embraces both creativity and discipline. We believe architecture should not only make an impression, but also establish a lasting connection between people, spaces and their surroundings.

The blade
Precision & structure
The mirror
Reflection & vision

What we hold to

  • Design and execution, never separated

    The people who draw your building are responsible for building it. One vision carries through every decision.

  • One responsible team

    From concept to final finish there is a single point of accountability, not a chain of hand-overs.

  • Every detail has a purpose

    Proportion, material and light are chosen to reflect the people who will live and work in the space.

  • Built to stand the test of time

    We take responsibility for making it exist exactly as envisioned, precisely as designed and built to last.

The mark

Our symbol is drawn from the first letter of the wordmark: a solid square monolith, a concentric mirror cut from its centre, and two corners sheared at 45 degrees like a blade. Precision and reflection, locked across a single diagonal.

The Obsidian O symbol rendered as a glossy black three-dimensional object
Visualisation: a piece of black obsidian with a flaked blade edge on one side and a mirror-polished face on the other
Visualisation

Leadership

Miran Aram Burhan

Founder & Principal Architect

We don't simply imagine what could exist. We take responsibility for making it exist exactly as envisioned, precisely as designed, and built to stand the test of time.