About

Long-time Central Coast resident, Ross Howard, started Howard + Phillips Design Partners in 2000 to concentrate on distinctive modern architecture design.

The year 2000 may have been the start of a new era, however Ross has a long history in architecture. Armed with a drafting ceftificate achieved after leaving school, he joined a firm of Sydney architects. Ironically, his love at school was technical drawing however he was dissuaded from following this path so pursued it once his school days were over. His manager at the firm, who became Ross's first mentor, was a builder prior to becoming an architect. The building credential impressed Ross greatly, as the projects architect could confidently go onto a building site with the practical skills to achieve the desired solution.

Ross moved to the Central coast in 1971 and later ran a building company for 13 years which gave him invaluable experience combining functional architecture and efficiency in construction. This was followed with five years managing a company that combined building and design. Such a background also enables him to advise people through the construction phase and take on complex project management roles.

His extensive portfolio of design work includes a contemporary restaurant in one of Sydney's luxury hotels, commercial developments, beach houses, urban residences and rural retreats and resorts. Ross also combines architecture with his personal belief that “the smaller the footprint on the earth, the minimum impact”. This motivates his desire to create energy efficient buildings that are more in harmony with the environment.

He cites timber - Australian hardwood in particular - and glass as his favourite materials used to fulfill his passion for functional, natural light-filled internal spaces having a good transition to northern external spaces.