June 18 2025 19:00
Tia Kanakakis, partner at MDS Architecture
After 29 years of dedicated service helping shape one of Africa’s most iconic retail destinations, Liberty Two Degrees (L2D), manager of Sandton City and the property business line within the Insurance and Asset Management business unit of the Standard Bank Group, together with co-owners Liberty (a wholly owned subsidiary of the Standard Bank Group) and Pareto Limited, proudly celebrate Tia Kanakakis on her retirement. As a Partner at MDS Architecture and L2D’s long-standing architectural partner for Sandton City, Tia has been instrumental in guiding the centre’s ongoing transformation. Her visionary contributions have not only influenced the evolution of Sandton City but have also left an enduring mark on South Africa’s built environment.
Kanakakis joined MDS Architecture in 1990 shortly after graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of the Witwatersrand. Her talent, drive, and vision quickly elevated her to partnership within four years. Over the next three decades, she helped shape some of South Africa’s most prominent commercial landmarks, including shopping centres, hotels, and corporate office buildings, but her most iconic and enduring contribution remains her pivotal role in the development of Sandton City.
As the principal architect on numerous refurbishments and strategic expansions at Sandton City, Kanakakis was instrumental in guiding the retail precinct’s architectural journey from a regional shopping centre into a globally celebrated super regional retail destination. Her contributions include the award-winning Protea Court, a marvel of sustainable design with its ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) roof inspired by the indigenous Protea flower. This lightweight and translucent structure captures natural light while reducing energy consumption, a perfect illustration of how thoughtful design can serve both aesthetic and environmental goals.
“Tia’s work on Sandton City exemplifies not only architectural innovation but also her unwavering dedication to client collaboration and her deep understanding of the ever-evolving retail landscape. Her ability to interpret our vision and translate it into sustainable design outcomes has had a profound impact on the precinct’s ongoing transformation,” says José Snyders, Chief Executive at Liberty Two Degrees.
Kanakakis’s partnership with L2D was characterised by a shared commitment to sustainability. Her design philosophy consistently aligned with L2D’s sustainability targets, which include ambitious Net Zero waste, water, and energy efficiency goals. Her leadership in embedding energy-saving technologies, environmentally responsible materials, and resource-conscious design into Sandton City’s ongoing upgrades directly supported L2D’s sustainability agenda.
“Tia demonstrated a rare ability to innovate while staying grounded in the practical needs of a dynamic retail environment,” says Melinda Isaacs, L2D Developments Executive. “She not only embraced our sustainability commitments, she has also actively found creative solutions to meet them through design. Her duty of care shown to this iconic asset, that is Sandton City, will fondly be remembered”.
Her attention to detail and embracing the client brief are also evident in projects such as the reimagined Food District at Sandton City, which blends artisanal materials, abundant greenery, and modular seating into a space that encourages community, sustainability, and modern retailing. Smart amenities like secure charging stations and thoughtful recycling infrastructure have made the precinct more responsive to today’s digitally connected and environmentally conscious shoppers.
Kanakakis’s role has also extended beyond design delivery. She has been a trusted advisor and collaborative partner, guiding L2D and other stakeholders through complex redevelopment and compliance processes, ensuring every phase remained aligned with long-term goals of excellence and innovation.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the industry, Kanakakis was awarded the Professional of the Year – Private Sector by the Women’s Property Network in 2019. This accolade reflects her pioneering work in a traditionally male-dominated field and her influence as a mentor and role model to the next generation of South African architects.
As she steps into retirement, Kanakakis leaves behind more than just buildings, she leaves a design legacy built on trust, sustainability, and a deep understanding of placemaking. Her decades-long partnership with L2D and Sandton City serves as a blueprint for how long-term vision, sustainable design, and strong relationships can transform not just spaces, but communities.
L2D extends heartfelt thanks to Tia Kanakakis for her trailblazing work, her collaborative spirit, and her extraordinary contribution to shaping a destination that continues to connect people, brands, and experiences.
247@propertyflash.co.za
