Biotope Architecture and Interiors

Biotope Architecture and Interiors

About

We adopt a holistic approach to designing buildings. From homes with minimal impact on the ecology of a site and discreet additions that complement existing structures to bespoke interiors crafted through collaborations with local makers. Our designs focus on context and seek to enhance the connection to the site through carefully considered spatial composition.

We look to both the immediate and broader landscapes for cues on how to preserve, regenerate and create a natural environment setting for each of our projects. It’s why we often introduce building elements, like courtyards and skylights, for example, to connect to the external environment and surrounding skyscapes. We also use passive solar design principles to reduce costs and be kinder to the Earth.

When life changes we often need to alter or expand the spaces we occupy. Whether that’s an extension to the family home for entertaining or an environmentally conscious workspace in a heritage-listed property. We design to retain and work with as much of the original heritage fabric as possible while transforming the building into a space that fits your current and future needs.

We take the location of a building and its distinctive setting seriously. These design principles grew out of the need to create an architectural language and expression that keeps with current thinking and the need for sustainable, environmentally sensitive buildings. Flora, fauna, the weather, the urban context and site history all play a significant part in informing design practice so that structures are unobtrusive elements on the landscape. Local materials and craftsmen are resourced and their bespoke elements reference the site and the environment in which a building will stand.

As the anchor for our clients, consultancy team, builders and makers, collaboration is key to the realisation of every project. Get in touch with us to start a conversation about your next project.

Testimonials

I've been photographing quite a lot of Rosa's work for a number of years. It has always been a pleasure, she creates such beautiful spaces and her attention to detail is exquisite. Whether ground up designs, renovations or interior fit outs, it's always exciting to see her next project.

- Peter Mathew

We worked with Rosa over a couple of years to formulate a design to meets our changing needs and budget. She has a great eye for detail and was very accommodating to our needs. We really liked her design approach and would recommend her to other clients.

- Shona & Anthony Prior

Rosa and her team were amazing from start to finish. They were flexible and adaptable to our needs and requests, yet gave our project so much of their own flair, design and quality. Their communication was always clear, considered and timely. The finished product is amazing, a great build quality, with beautiful design and spaces that we use and are proud of.

- Stuart Beard

Rosa Douramanis was an architect and designer of our home and we are absolutely happy with the result. Working with her meant that not a single tiny detail was left unattended and all our requests were answered and satisfied. 

On top of that Rosa has provided great input in terms of sustainability of our house, and that is a great addition to its beautiful design.

- Olga and Dmitry

We were delighted to work with Rosa (from Biotope Architecture and interiors) on the rebuild and extension of our 1850s sandstone house in central Hobart. This project was a labour of love and, thus, it was paramount to have an architect that was sympathetic to both the heritage aspects of the structure and to the design necessities of modern life. This was achieved through thoughtful and delicate considerations that yielded a result far beyond what we could’ve imagined! We are ecstatic with the final result.

- Frank Strangio

Biotope Architecture and Interiors
Biotope Architecture and Interiors

Architects