With 15 years of global experience, Doug is an accomplished and passionate architect who believes that spaces really do affect feelings and behaviour. He sits on the Guernsey Design Awards' Panel, and doesn't have any spare time with 4 daughters!
Why do you love being part of PF+A?
There is a great, friendly team here. We all have time for each other, and we have a collaborative approach to the work we do; sharing design ideas and technical solutions.
What ignited your passion to make a difference in the world and enhance people’s lives?
I always wanted to do something with design and Architecture ended up being the perfect fit. Studying at the Welsh School of Architecture there was a real emphasis on learning from the past, I enjoy bringing traditional ideas forward into modern design. It’s great when you see your clients get excited about your ideas and this is the part of the job which brings the most satisfaction.
What personal attribute are you most proud of?
I am quite intuitive as a designer – my first idea tends to be my best. That said, I enjoy working closely with the client when they have strong ideas of their own, taking these and developing them into a great piece of architecture, sometimes ending up with something completely different (and occasionally better!) than that initial idea.
Before starting at PF+A, what was your background and experience?
Before PF+A I worked for nearly ten years at another local practice, mainly on residential and hospitality projects. I have worked in several other local practices and spent time in offices in Wales and Fiji. I have worked on all sorts of projects, from single WCs to multi-million-pound hotel refurbishments and industrial complexes. My main area of expertise is in residential new-builds and extensions; as well as bars and restaurants - I have had a hand in many local establishments.
What’s your favourite sandwich?
I try and get some salad and healthy ingredients in a sandwich, but I usually can’t stop myself making my favourite on the side: fresh bread, butter and several slices of ham. I eat the crusts first, so I get to enjoy the soft inside last… because I am a big kid.
Who’s your favourite architect?
I like Le Corbusier’s use of sculptural concrete (something which Guernsey has in abundance), and Mies Van der Rohe’s lightweight steel and glass simplicity. But my favourite style of architecture is Scandinavian modernism, my favourite architect being Sverre Fehn. I share his passion for traditional materials and building methods being re-interpreted into modern architecture.