Architecture is an ever-evolving and complex discipline, often too expansive to be contained by a single narrative. Each year, the birthday landmark of an architect like Architect Kola Olatunbosun offers a moment to reflect on their legacy, revisiting the impact of their work while capturing the essence of their career through the perspectives of colleagues and peers, alongside a record of their achievements. Celebrating the Platinum Jubilee of Architect Olatunbosun offers us the opportunity to reflect on his impact through broad categories—icons, innovators, or pioneers. Architect Olatunbosun is a distinguished Nigerian architect. Over and above that, it is his dedication to his Christian faith which provides and inspires his primary direction and purpose in life.

Architect Olatunbosun was born on November 6, 1955, in Ilesa, to Mr James Wole Olatunbosun and Mrs Dorcas Solabomi Olatunbosun. His early life was marked by curiosity, discipline, and a passion for excellence. He began his educational journey at Ebenezer Primary School, Ibadan, and later gained admission into the prestigious Government College, Ibadan, where he distinguished himself both academically and socially.

Architect Olatunbosun proceeded to the University of Lagos, where he earned a Master’s Degree in Architecture. After his studies, he worked briefly with Archi-Hives Architectural Firm before establishing his own successful practice, Architext Associates. Beyond Architect Olatunbosun’s visible works, we cannot help but remember and celebrate the enduring impact he is having on the world of design education and evangelical renewal in his local church, Hoarses’ Memorial Cathedral, Yaba. Lagos.

Architect Olatunbosun is not only an influential architect, landscape architect, theorist, and planner, but also a mentor for future practitioners. He continues to open many eyes to classicism, mannerism, complexity, tension, beauty and the sheer aesthetic thrill of great architecture.

The actual depth of Architect Olatunbosun’s legacy at 70 can never be fully captured in simple terms. Architect Olatunbosun’s sensitivity to the context, combined with clarity of vision, led to the creation of magnificent buildings that continue to inspire today. They are his enduring legacy to us. Over the years, Architect Olatunbosun has built a sterling professional reputation. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the architectural landscape of Ikoyi, Lagos, and has been instrumental in the design and development of several iconic high-rise buildings. He is also highly regarded for his expertise in hotel architecture, with his creative signature evident in renowned establishments such as the Radisson and Protea Hotels.

In public service, Architect Olatunbosun has contributed significantly to national development. He served as Chairman of the Urban Renewal Board. He was also a member of the Committee on the Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria, bringing his professional insight to bear on issues of urban planning and national growth.

Beyond his professional achievements, Architect Olatunbosun is deeply devoted to serving God. He has been a steadfast supporter of evangelism, particularly through the Methodist Evangelical Movement at the Yaba Circuit, supporting church initiatives at both the circuit and diocesan levels. In 1994, Architect Olatubosun was part of the Hoares’ Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Yaba, leadership that came to see a Prelate emeritus, His Eminence Sunday Mbang, at Wesley House, Marina, Lagos, to intervene in a lingering challenge at the Cathedral.

As the immediate past President of the Men’s Christian League—a leading men’s society of the Cathedral—his tenure was marked by visionary leadership, particularly in youth empowerment, sponsoring numerous young people to start businesses and pursue their dreams. In loving memory of his parents, he extended the same spirit of generosity to his home church in Ilesa, establishing youth support programs that continue to impact lives positively.

Behind every successful architect, like Architect Olatunbosun, there is not only a dedicated team of professionals who contribute their expertise and creativity to bring projects to fruition. On the home front, Architect Olatunbosun is a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Yinka, and a proud father to Foyeke and Bode, Toye and Temilayo, Funmiloye, and a doting grandfather to their adorable granddaughter, Tiwatope.

Architect Olatunbosun is known for his incredible versatility and for his contributions to architectural culture through his writings and translations. We celebrate not just his 70 years of life, but also the legacy of excellence, faith, and service he continues to build. We thank God for the gift of his life and pray that the rest of his years be filled with divine health, peace, and continued impact.

Happy Renewing Diamond Jubilee, sir.