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This paper focuses on the woven textiles of Otavalo, Ecuador, as a case study for improved cultural representation in architectural design. A shape grammar methodology is used to identify specific geometry and elucidate relationship rules found in existing artifacts. These geometry and relationships are subsequently used to produce patterns; both replicas of traditional tapestries as well as new configurations. Extending from 2D to 3D and from digital to physical, sets of modular prototypes are developed based on patterns produced using the defined Otavalo Textile Grammar. Model parts are supplied to study participants; new building blocks for architecture as a spatial and social undertaking.