Directors
Tia Kanakakis
BArch (Rand) PrArch (SA) MIArch
Tia joined MDS Architecture in 1990 after having graduated cum laude from university and receiving several awards during her studies. These awards have been a precursor to Tia’s expertise and commitment to architecture. In 1994 she became a partner and as a lead design and project architect has been responsible for a variety of projects such as retail shopping centres, hotels, casinos and office developments. Tia’s interactive and management style has enabled her to build lasting relationships with her clients and to lead teams on a diverse range of projects including the largest retail shopping centre built in one phase in the country.
Tia has worked on a number of commercial and retail projects amongst which she has spent 29 years working on the refurbishment, various alterations and new additions to Sandton City Shopping Centre and as such has been an integral design lead Architect to the long term vision transformation of Sandton City. She was the principal designer and lead architect for the Mall of Africa shopping centre completed in April 2016. Tia is also a Green Star Accredited Professional and has used her expertise in the field of Green Architecture to incorporate energy efficient and sustainable design solutions in various developments she has led. Tia successfully heads and manages the financial, recruitment and management systems of the practice.