Meet the directors.
Ola Architecture Studio was founded in 2014 by Phil Snowdon & Manos Mavridis. The two met in 2008 when Manos, a student at the time, worked under the tutelage of Phil who was an associate at CHT Architects. Several years later their paths crossed again and a shared passion for practical and beautiful architecture led to the formation of Ola.
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Phil’s interest in architecture was sparked by a fascination with the rural and agricultural buildings of his childhood in north western Victoria. The use of materials at hand to solve problems and create finely crafted and practical buildings that behold a strong connection to place is something that drives his design sensibility today.
His track record of delivering inspiring and intriguing architecture, in response to often unusual and complex briefs, is supplemented by his experience working with a range of architectural and landscape architectural practices prior to establishing his private practice in 2011 and then forming Ola in 2014 with Manos.
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Manos brings a unique blend of influences to his work stemming from a deep connection to Europe. At age 5 he moved to Australia from Greece, and prior to Ola he worked as an architect in Spain. He now splits his time between Melbourne and the satellite studio in Paris France, keeping him in tune with global design trends.
His philosophy in architecture is grounded on creating spaces that are highly site responsive, and as functional as they are beautiful. He approaches each design with a great understanding of his clients, striving to create architecture that truly reflects the people who will inhabit the space.