About us
We are a team of architects, BIM managers, computational designers, and creative technologists with over a decade of experience in leading architectural practices across London, New York, and the Netherlands. Our expertise lies in leveraging advanced computational techniques to elevate design thinking and problem-solving in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.
Our diverse portfolio includes projects in mixed use, education, offices, hospitality, public transport and stations, cultural institutions, airports, master planning, and immersive AR/VR experiences. We have partnered with architects, engineers, designers, and commercial clients such as Grimshaw Architects (London & New York), Heatherwick Studio (London), Google, Arizona State University, Arup, Buro Happold, The Port Authority of NY & NJ, Thornton Tomasetti, and more.
With a focus on BIM management and coordination, we lead efforts in digital project delivery, BIM documentation, interoperability workflows, complex geometry rationalization, parametric design tools, environmental analysis, GIS data integration and much more. Our approach ensures that we streamline project processes and enhance collaboration across all phases of design and construction with the use of advanced technology.
Team
CHRYSSA VARNA
Director & Co-Founder
Chryssa is bringing over 10 years of international experience as a BIM specialist, computational designer, and design technologist. Her work sits at the intersection of architecture, technology, and digital innovation, with a strong focus on advancing computational methodologies to enhance design thinking and optimize project delivery.
Before founding NoCa, Chryssa was leading the Design Technology department (BIM, Computational Design, VR&AR) in Grimshaw Architects in New York and Los Angeles. She has also collaborated with renowned art and architecture practices the TiroTech startup in the Netherlands, and the artist collective Troika in London.
She is also currently the Head of Design Technology and BIM Manager at Thymio Papayannis & Associates (TPA), where she leads the firm’s digital transformation, overseeing BIM management and ensuring effective coordination across a wide range of projects.
Her expertise spans computational design, BIM documentation and coordination, interoperability workflows, complex geometry rationalization, parametric tool development, environmental analysis, GIS data integration, and the innovative application of VR/AR in design processes.
Chryssa holds a Master’s degree in Architecture and Engineering from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and a Postgraduate degree in Architecture from the Bartlett School of Architecture (UCL).
SILENA PATSALIDOU
Director & Co-Founder
Silena is an architect with over 10 years of experience in architecture, BIM implementation, and project management. Her expertise spans all stages of design and construction, with a strong focus on integrating BIM technologies to enhance project delivery and coordination.
Before founding NoCa, Silena worked at internationally renowned studios in London, including Heatherwick Studio, Grimshaw Architects, and Martha Schwartz Partners, where she contributed to advancing design technology initiatives and developing expertise in BIM workflows and parametric modelling.
In 2020, Silena returned to Greece to join PILA, where as Director, she led the architectural design and BIM management for the new façade of Piraeus Tower, a significant urban redevelopment project in Athens. Her experience spans the full project lifecycle, from concept and design to documentation and on-site supervision. Silena is adept at managing multidisciplinary teams, ensuring smooth project delivery by integrating design and BIM technologies throughout the process.
Silena also maintains ties to academia, having served as an Associate Lecturer at Oxford Brookes University and frequently participating in academic reviews as a jury member. She holds a Master’s in Architecture and Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens and a Postgraduate degree in Architecture from the Bartlett School of Architecture (UCL).
CURRENT AND PREVIOUS COLLABORATORS
Thymio Papayannis & Associates, K-Studio, Grimshaw Architects, Haptic Architects, Arup, Andreas Georgiou, Diarchon, Pila, Heatherwick Studio, Tirotech B.V., Troika London, Cinimod Studio
