Graduated in Urban Planning and Bioclimatic Architecture from the University of Paris La Villette, the architect responsible for the companies Ilya Semionoff Lda., a new member of AIP, and Silhar has, since 2002, been developing a practice marked by the rehabilitation of built heritage, combining tradition, sustainability and innovation.
Its work is distinguished by the integration of construction systems based on the standards of the Passivhaus Institut, combined with traditional techniques and ecological materials. Since 2010, he has collaborated with NaturSitta – Environmental Projects Office, exploring methodologies around conservation, biodiversity and sustainable architectural intervention strategies.
Among the rehabilitation projects in the historic center of Coimbra, buildings such as the Casa da Porta Nova, which received an honorable mention in the “Alexandre Herculano” National Architecture Competition, the Freiria Building, the Casa do Kimbo dos Sobas, and the restoration of the Ameias Building, converted into a restaurant space, stand out. These projects promote the safeguarding of original architectural elements and functional adaptation to new urban uses.
At a national level, he coordinated interventions in rural heritage and tourism projects with an ecological focus, such as Herdade da Argamassa in Alentejo and rural tourism ventures in Serra da Estrela and Douro. In the hotel sector, he led projects such as the Hotel Serra da Estrela and the Geriatric Center – Resort & SPA, which combine comfort, accessibility and landscape integration.
In terms of urban planning, he was the author of the Tojal Urbanization plan (Seia) and participated in international competitions, such as the Real Marina Don Carlos I Urban Rehabilitation in Valencia, Spain.
In addition to project work, he is dedicated to technical consultancy, architectural surveys, budgeting for complex works and architectural competitions and heritage appreciation. His professional practice is supported by a multidisciplinary approach that combines technical rigor, historical knowledge and environmental sensitivity.
Name: ILYA SEMIONOFF, UNIPESSOAL, LDA. / Architecture Studio
Sector: Architecture
CAE: Architectural activities
Manager: Ilya Semionoff
Municipality: Coimbra
Products/Services: Architectural projects, rehabilitation and conservation. Bioclimatic and sustainable architecture. Hotels, urban planning and commerce. Consulting.
