ABOUT

Fowler and Ward is a Melbourne-based architecture and interior design practice founded in 2019 by directors Jessie Fowler and Tara Ward. The firm is built on the pair’s 20-year friendship and extensive local and overseas experience.

Fowler and Ward’s residential and commercial projects reflect the firm’s pragmatism and passion: every space is designed to give back to its users in terms of function, accessibility, economics, atmosphere, and aesthetics. Working from the belief that 80% of the job is understanding how people live, Fowler and Ward approach clients with genuineness and empathy, enjoying the crucial first stage when the client’s needs are clearly defined.

Their full-service expertise spans research, iterative design development, full documentation and contract administration. Outcomes are value-driven and architecture-led. Their work maximises volume, flow and light; prioritising robust, tactile materials and aims to impart a sense of inclusivity. Fowler and Ward has delivered award-winning compact homes and sensitive renovations, as well as new builds and multi-residential projects. Regardless of a project’s size, context, or budget, Fowler and Ward is committed to designing creative, healthy spaces that engender connection, compassion and respect, and that ultimately improve the liveability of cities.

TEAM

JESSIE FOWLER, Director – ARBV 18534, M.Arch, B.Planning and Design, B.Property and Construction (Property)

Jessie previously worked both locally and internationally, including for respected practices Clare Cousins Architects and Boston-based Merge Architects. In Boston, Jessie led teams working on major projects including the City Modern multi-residential development in Detroit and the renovation of the Massachusetts headquarters of a global search engine company. Jessie’s passion lies in producing spaces, and houses in particular, that give back to their neighbourhood. Creating homes in small spaces, sensitive renovations that breathe new life into under appreciated buildings, and new-builds or multi-residential developments that increase density without overwhelming neighbourhood character.

TARA WARD, Director – ARBV 18361, M.Arch, B.Planning and Design

Tara has extensive experience in the design and delivery of residential projects of all scales. Prior to founding Fowler and Ward, she rose to Senior Associate at the award-winning practice, Clare Cousins Architects. Tara led many of the practice’s largest and most complex projects including mixed-use, multi-residential and commercial developments, including Nightingale Evergreen.  Tara believes that good design should be accessible to all, applying the same rigour to a small residential interior as to a large commercial project. This ensures that the fundamentals of a healthy and engaging space are applied regardless of size, context, budget or brief.

JOB GABRIELS, Project Architect  –  ARBV 800720, M.Arch, B.Environmental Design

EMILY MCBAIN, Project Architect  –  ARBV 800497, M.Arch, B.Arch

TESSA GAUNT, Architectural Graduate  – M.Arch, B.Environmental Design

Fowler and Ward work and create on the unceded land of the Wurundjeri people. We acknoweldge the traditional owners of country across Victoria where our projects are located.

Fowler and Ward (F & W Pty Ltd) is a registered architectural practice.

Architects Registration Board of Victoria Member #51558
Member of the Australian Institute of Architects
Member of the Architeam Cooperative