I am Evangelos N. Kotatis, an architect, researcher and author specializing in the study and preservation of historical buildings. From my earliest childhood, I have been captivated by architecture, particularly the estates – towers and grand mansions of Kampos, Chios. Growing up in Thymiana, adjacent to the traditional settlement of Kampos, I spent countless hours exploring these estates with my cousins—wandering through courtyards, tiptoeing through abandoned interiors, and discovering hidden details that sparked a lifelong fascination.

My family’s roots in the region strengthened this connection. My father, a builder from Thymiana, often renovated estates and churches using the famous Thymiana stone, the material for many local historical buildings. My mother’s family came from the Kampos area of Kontari, where they had lived in Kampos estates as caretakers. I frequently visited my cousins, walking daily through Kampos’ narrow streets to attend the local high school, which deepened my intimate knowledge of the area. Childhood games among the estates—exploring towers, gardens, courtyards, and the citrus orchards (perivolia) of oranges, lemons, and mandarins—became the foundation of a lifelong passion for architecture, restoration, and historical research.

I studied Architectural Computer Design in Thessaloniki (1998–2000) and then pursued advanced architectural studies at De Montfort University in Leicester, UK (2000–2007). Under the supervision of Professor Dennis Radford, a distinguished expert in architectural history and traditional building restoration, I completed my dissertation on the architecture of the Kampos region in 2005, combining archival research, site visits, interviews, and photographic documentation. During this period, I also gained practical experience at the Building Maintenance Department of Derby City Council.

Professionally, I have worked on projects ranging from exhibitions and product design to small-scale construction, and I have taught design, AutoCAD, and orthographic drawing. My approach is meticulous, combining technical precision with a deep appreciation for the historical and cultural significance of architecture.

Personal Philosophy

Architecture, for me, is more than design—it is a bridge between history, culture, and community. My work combines technical expertise, artistic sensitivity, and a deep commitment to cultural preservation. Whether through teaching, design projects, or research, my mission is to protect heritage, honor memory, and create environments where people and history coexist harmoniously.