In memory of Steve, a wonderful friend and colleague. Reflecting on life, I was probably always going to meet Stephen one day. The architecture world was smaller in 2001 when I joined Huw Owen Architects. Back then there was just six of us, Steve included. I think Steve was about to marry Grace. What I didn’t realised at the time was that he was marrying the same Grace I had shared a few pints with several years before, during our gap year (A college friend and Grace were both working in a public toilet at the time!) So, I’d like to think becoming Steve’s friend was meant to be. So that is how we met. Anyone who has worked at HOA will know that moving offices was a habit. Our first office was horrible - best described as a corridor. If it hadn’t been for Steve’s generosity in sharing his home in Pembrokeshire for the annual office social, I’m not sure I would have lasted long. My first trip to Little Haven, sealed friendships that continued long after we all went our separate ways. Thinking of Steve as I write this, I am reminded of him in so many ways: In office meetings, intricately sketching a little tank or lighthouse in the corners of his notebook, chuckling away to himself. Gently cajoling and mentoring his colleagues when work or life got on top of us. On a break, having a smoke and coffee on the office roof on Bond Street. After work, a big smile on his face down the pub. In Wales, marching us along the Pembrokeshire coastline gathering sloe berries. Happily picking off ticks on a friend’s dog, in East Meon…. A more recent memory! Showing me the ponds and river at the new family home before work started on the house. Steve mentioned he once that he wanted to join the army as a teenager, but I am very grateful he chose architecture instead, otherwise we would never have met, and I wouldn’t be able to say he was my friend. I will miss him very much.

Unforgettable chuckle, smile and mannerisms, great company, generous at the bar, tiny fags, brown mini called the turd full of terrible cassettes, thoroughly lovely man and boy.

Thank you for creating this tribute to Stephen and supporting Rowans Hospice Charity. Supporting the work of the Charity in memory of a loved one is a very special way to remember them and celebrate their life. We hope that you find developing this tribute a positive experience and that it becomes a place of comfort and inspiration for you to visit whenever you want or need to such as birthdays, anniversaries and on days that are special to you. The Charity is very privileged to be chosen and remembered by our community in this special way and are always grateful to family and friends for supporting the Charity at what we know can be a sad and difficult time. Thank you.