Evangelos N. Kotatis

Architect – Researcher – Author

Curriculum Vitae & The Kampos Estates & Buildings Records

Evangelos N. Kotatis
Architect – Researcher – Author
De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
Member of TEE (Reg. No: 131931)

Vision & Philosophy

With deep roots and a profound experiential connection to the island of Chios, I combine architectural science with historical and social research. Having dedicated over two decades to studying the cultural heritage of my homeland, my work focuses on historical continuity, architectural identity, and preserving the “living memory” of historical monuments.

To me, architecture has never been a cold documentation of materials, floor plans, and dates. Buildings are not merely walls; they are living organisms, carriers of human stories, emotions, and culture. Behind every tall stone wall in Kampos, behind every manganos (waterwheel) and courtyard, lies the genius loci — the spirit of the place and the souls of the people who created and lived in it.

My methodology relies heavily on Experiential and Human-Centered Documentation (Oral History). Buildings regain their “voice” through the oral testimonies of those who inhabited them, the local people, and the traditional builders who carved the renowned stone of Thimiana.

As an independent Citizen Scientist, I established The Kampos Estates & Buildings Records (TKEBR), a monumental digital ark of a voluntary nature containing thousands of photographs, video recordings, and audio interviews. Its ultimate goal is the democratization of architectural history and the preservation of the intangible heritage of Kampos.

«Learning about the past helps us to understand our present and to create our future»

1. Education & Certifications

Academic Education & Training

  • 2003 – 2007 | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) Honours Degree / Postgraduate Diploma De Montfort University (Leicester School of Architecture), United Kingdom. Professional Qualification: R.I.B.A. Part 2 (Royal Institute of British Architects).
  • 2000 – 2003 | Bachelor of Arts (BA Hons) in Architecture De Montfort University (Leicester School of Architecture), United Kingdom. Professional Qualification: R.I.B.A. Part 1 (Royal Institute of British Architects).
  • 1998 – 2000 | Vocational Training Diploma — Architectural CAD Technician IIEK Pythagoras, Thessaloniki, Greece. Core Subjects: Architectural & Construction Drawing, Building Technology, Topographic Drawing, 2D & 3D Design (CAD), Spatial-Volume Design & Photorealism, Scales & Printing Formats, Workplace Organization.
  • 1996 – 1998 | Technical Vocational High School (TEL) Diploma Technical Vocational High School of Stavroupoli, Thessaloniki, Greece. Specialization: Computer Technician Department.
  • June 1996 | High School Diploma — General Senior High School of Kampos, Chios General Senior High School of Kampos, Chios, Greece. Qualification: High School Graduation Diploma.

Selected Academic Projects

  • 2006 – 2007 | Mastic Health Farm & Spa (Karfas Tourist Resort, Chios) De Montfort University (Integrated Design Project – BArch: 5001) A comprehensive architectural proposal bridging modern wellness infrastructure with local identity and the cultivation of Chian mastic.

Professional Licenses, Specializations & Digital Skills

  • 2012 | Professional License as an Architect Engineer Technical Chamber of Greece (TEE) | Registration No. 131931.
  • 2020 | Web & Applications Design Specialist (Web Designer) Ke.Di.Vi.M2 EXELIXIS.
  • 2023 | E-Commerce Specialist Ke.Di.Vi.M2 EXELIXIS.
  • ECDL / ICDL Certification – Core Certificate Computer Literacy & Office Applications.

2. Research & Publications

The Kampos Estates & Buildings Records (TKEBR)

  • Duration: September 2004 – Present
  • Role: Independent Researcher & Project Leader
  • Field of Study: Kampos, Chios
  • Description: A long-term, voluntary documentation and archiving initiative that began as part of my dissertation project at De Montfort University of Leicester (UK) and continues uninterrupted to this day. The project aims to protect, promote, and preserve the historic mansions, monuments, and unique cultural identity of Kampos by constructing a monumental digital archive with thousands of photographs, video captures, and oral history interviews.

Relevant Bibliography & Deposited Work

  • Kotatis, E. N. (2017). The Treasures of Kampos: Through the Testimonies of its Inhabitants. Chios: “Alpha Pi” Publications / Giannis Palios. (Bilingual Edition, Greek–English, 216 pages, ISBN: 978-618-5117-78-8).
  • Kotatis, E. N. (2004–2005). The domestic architecture of Chios as seen through the eyes of Dimitrios Pikionis and Arnold C. Smith – Main emphasis on Kampos region. Undergraduate Dissertation, De Montfort University of Leicester, UK. (Copy deposited at the “Korais” Central Public Historical Library of Chios).
  • Kotatis, E. N. (Under Publication). The Treasures of Kampos: Chios: 8,000 Years at the Center of the World. A collector’s box set and new publication series of historical and digital architectural documentation (From 6,000 BC to the present). This new comprehensive multi-volume work focuses on the Chian diaspora and the prominent historical families of Kampos (Genoa, London, Syros, Constantinople, Egypt), summing up 22 years of continuous research (2004–2026).

3. Professional Experience & Teaching

Architectural Practice

  • Nov 2020 – Apr 2022 | Architectural CAD Technician Technical Office of Theodosios Koutsouradis (Civil Engineer) | Chios, Greece.
  • Jun 2009 – Aug 2012 | Architect Assistant MV.EK Architects & Partners – Maria Vasilaki (Architect I.U.A.V.) | Chios, Greece.
  • Apr 2008 – Apr 2009 | Architect Assistant Cullen Carter & Hill Architects | Nottingham, United Kingdom.
  • Mar 2007 – May 2007 | Architectural CAD Technician Summers-Inman, Construction & Building Consultants | Leicester, United Kingdom.
  • Apr 2004 – May 2005 | Architectural CAD Technician Building Maintenance and Restoration Department, Directorate of Town Planning, Derby City Council | Derby, United Kingdom.
  • Summer Periods 2002 & 2003 | Architect Assistant (Internship) Maria M. Vasilaki (Architect I.U.A.V.) | Chios, Greece.
  • Jun 1999 – Nov 1999 | CAD Technician (Internship) EUROFLAM Technical Company | Thessaloniki, Greece.
  • Summers 1990 – 1994 | Apprenticeship & On-Site Support — “N. Kotatis & I. Zervos” Contracting Partnership Company / Employer: Technical & Contracting Office of Nikolaos E. Kotatis & Ioannis Zervos, Chios, Greece. Role: Construction Site Assistant / Apprentice. Focus: Hands-on apprenticeship and manual support in field operations during the summer periods. Key Responsibilities:
    • Observation and practical understanding of load-bearing masonry construction and structural phases.
    • Manual support on-site, including the transport and handling of structural elements, aggregates, and construction materials.
    • Preparation and maintenance of workspace materials, including the cleaning, recycling, and sorting of wooden formworks to ensure site safety.
    • Assisted in basic on-site logistics, such as checking material deliveries and tracking inventory needs.

Cultural & Research Activities

  • Associate in Architectural & Cultural Documentation Drafting specialized scientific studies, curating thematic exhibitions, and designing innovative cultural products aimed at organically connecting architectural heritage with contemporary design.

Teaching Experience

  • Dec 2024 – Mar 2026 | Tutor of Linear & Architectural Drawing Plaka Art Centre | Athens, Greece.
  • Nov 2018 – Apr 2019 | Tutor of Linear & Architectural Drawing Poukamisas Educational Centres | Chios, Greece.
  • Summer Periods 2001, 2002, 2003 | AutoCAD Instructor (2D & 3D) CARIERRA Business & Computing School | Chios, Greece. Teaching digital drafting and design software to university students and field professionals.

4. International Activity & Academic Workshops

  • June 2024 | UC Berkeley International Academic Programme: Historical & Architectural Guided Tour of Kampos, Chios
    • Co-Organizers: Study Abroad in Greece (SAiG), University of California, Berkeley, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Municipality of Chios.
    • Role: Guest Speaker & Researcher – Guide.
    • Focus: Within the framework of the international programme “Mediterranean Diet & Food Systems”, undertook the scientific presentation and guided tour for American students in Kampos, Chios, centering on the Perivoli multi-space and the Citrus Museum.
    • Project: The lecture focused on the unique architectural character and social history of the settlement, based exclusively on his personal research, and concluded with an academic discussion with the students.
On the left, the organizer, Yánnis Zofós Pappás
  • October 2023 | Joint International Architectural Workshop: “Medieval City of Rhodes” (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
    • Organizers: Technical Chamber of Greece (TEE) – Department of Dodecanese & Chamber of Architects of Turkey (Muğla Branch).
    • Role: Participating Architect / Member of the Bilateral Scientific Working Group.
    • Key Responsibilities & Project:
      • Developed strategic architectural and urban design proposals to manage overtourism pressures within the historic medieval settlement.
      • Analyzed urban degradation factors, including visitor overcrowding, uncontrolled commercial uses, visual pollution, and inappropriate building signage.
      • Drafted heritage protection guidelines aimed at preserving the monument’s authentic identity while integrating it smoothly into contemporary urban life.
    • Final Presentation Venue: Public exhibition and project defense held at the Bastion of St. George, Medieval Town of Rhodes.
Group Architects: Leyla Ercan – Evangelos N. Kotatis – Stefania Adamaki
  • March 2015 | European Programme Leonardo da Vinci: Nea Moni of Chios (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
    • Organizers: Chios Architects Association (Upon invitation) / European Programme Leonardo da Vinci.
    • Role: Volunteer Architect & Keynote Speaker.
    • Participation: In the international educational initiative “ECO – Traditional Techniques for Construction and Landscape Sectors”.
    • Focus & Project: Welcoming, training, and guiding students from European Technical High Schools. In collaboration with fellow architects, I undertook the exclusive presentation of the Nea Moni monumental complex. Delivered a scientific lecture focusing on the history, structural analysis of the buildings, and traditional construction techniques, based on the academic research conducted in 2003 for my university in the United Kingdom.

5. Awards, Distinctions & Creative Work

  • August 2012 | 1st Prize for Model Making / Construction — “Scarecrows” Art Competition
    • Organizer: Citrus Multi-space, Kampos, Chios.
    • Group: Mental Health Day Center of Chios.
    • Role: Construction Team Coordinator, Design & Supervision.
    • Project Title: “BALANCE”
    • Concept & Technique: A group project executed entirely through origami technique with a wooden support structure, created as a voluntary contribution for the Mental Health Day Center of Chios.
    • Philosophy: Inspired by the Yin Yang theory of complementary opposites, this black-and-white scarecrow redefines its traditional purpose: instead of scaring away, it embraces and keeps the world’s birds safe, while harmoniously protecting the fields and crops.
    • Project Credits:
      • Construction Team: Despoina Georgalou, Nikos Koukoulis, Iakovos Kostalas, Giannis Kormalos, Areti Myloná, Athina Paida, Pantelis Strongylos, Nitsa Fragkaki, Anastasia Christou.
      • Scientific & Support Staff of the Day Center: Eleni Siakavella (Scientific Director – Social Worker), Vasiliki Koutelaki (Social Worker), Rania Sideridi (Ergotherapist), Paraskevi Karanikoli (Nurse), Alexandra Mastoraki (Nurse), Ioanna Grigoropoulou (Psychologist), Smaro Paliou (Administrative Staff), Eirini Paxinou (Support Staff).
      • External Collaborators: Stelios Mountoudis (Carpenter), Litsa Kormalou (English Language Teacher).
    • Team Note: “We express our deepest gratitude to architect Evangelos Kotatis, who dedicated his time to the completion of this project. With his knowledge and enthusiasm, he supervised and coordinated the construction team, inspiring us all and turning this project into a beautiful journey.”
  • 1996 – 1997 | Theatrical Member (Acting) — Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH) Law School Drama Team
    • Production: “The Witches of Salem” by Arthur Miller.
    • Location: Thessaloniki, Greece.
    • Activity: Participated as an active member (actor) in the Law School’s drama group, contributing to the artistic and intellectual life of the academic community.

6. Volunteering & Social Contribution

  • 2011 | Volunteer Tutor (Supportive Teaching) 2nd General High School of Chios (Livanio) | Supervisor: Leonidas Pyrgaris (School Principal). Conducted voluntary linear drawing classes to prepare high school students for the Panhellenic Examinations, alongside supportive English language lessons.
  • 1997 – 1998 | Volunteer Assistant “Aghios Dimitrios” Recovery and Rehabilitation Centre for Children with Disabilities | Pylaia, Thessaloniki, Greece. Provided support, care, and creative occupation services to children with special needs.

7. Additional Information & Interests

Cultural & Artistic Action (Thimiana, Chios)

  • 1986 – 1996 | Greek Traditional Dances Organization: Thimiana Cultural & Educational Association (M.E.O.TH.). Activity: Ten years of active participation in the traditional dance troupe, performing dances from Chios and broader Greece in regional and national cultural events.
  • Amateur Theater Actor Organization: M.E.O.TH. Theater Group. Activity: Performed as an actor in local theatrical productions and community cultural events.
  • Thimiana Carnival (Mostra) Participation Activity: Multi-year, active participation in the traditional pageants and parades of “Mostra”, an authentic, historic Chian custom with deep medieval roots.

Audiovisual Capture & Digital Heritage Documentation

  • Digital Documentary Creator: «The Chronicle of Mostra in Thimiana» (Available on YouTube). Description: Research, collection of rare archival material, scriptwriting, and audiovisual curation of an online historical video-tribute detailing the origins and evolution of the medieval Mostra custom, contributing to the digital preservation of Chios’s intangible cultural heritage. Credits Note: This project was co-created and thoroughly researched alongside my late dear friend, Eftychia G. Myrisi, with whom we jointly gathered the historical photographs, co-authored the texts, and produced the final video material.

Sports

  • 1986 – 1994 | Swimming (Competitive Sports) Club: Thimiana Nautical Club Swimming Team (N.O.TH.). Activity: Eight-year athletic tenure in competitive swimming with systematic training and participation in local and regional aquatics championships.
  • 1992 – 1996 | Table Tennis (Ping Pong) Club: M.E.O.TH. Sports Department. Activity: Active player in club tournaments and local sports activities.