Illia Ovsiiko

Classical architecture was Illia’s first love – the neo-baroque and French rococo style that predominated in the Black Sea town of Odesa where he grew up. Beautiful examples, such as the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet, crafted in the mid-19th century, instilled a love of built heritage. And his training at the city’s State Academy of Construction and Architecture cemented an interest in a career that thrives at the intersection of technology and art.

Moving to Aotearoa in 2011 was a step change both culturally and professionally. Illia’s focus shifted from the design of high-end houses and apartments, and downtown commercial hotels with a classical bent, to the far more streamlined vernacular found here.

An appreciation of the level of vision that gave Ironbank its statement presence and eco-conscious mana brought him to RTA Studio in 2016, where he was immediately valued for his aptitude in contract administration and ability to adapt nimbly to on-the-ground situations. Illia now turns his exacting eye to a range of typologies from multi-unit residential (Alexandra Park) to commercial offices (Halcyon Lighting) and educational institutions (Wesley Primary School).

Bringing value to the streetscape is integral to his thinking and Illia is ever energised by the process – the translation of an idea, through concept to built form.

As a migrant, he cherishes the deep historical roots of Eastern Europe, while fully embracing the Kiwi lifestyle spending weekends renovating a 1970s terrace and dinghy sailing on the Hauraki Gulf with his boys.

“Architecture gives me the satisfaction that ideas can enliven spaces and bring joy to the people using them.”