Architect Ross Harniman has been appointed Creative Director Singapore. Ross boasts an impressive 20+ year career across Europe and Asia. He is perhaps best known for his work leading the teams on over 15 global Apple flagship stores – a decade-long journey that took him from London to Shanghai, and ultimately to Singapore.
Here we sit down with Ross to find out a little more about his story.
- Tell me a little bit about yourself and your work history.
I’m a UK-registered architect with over 20 years of international experience across Europe and Asia. Most recently at Foster + Partners, my work centred on high-rise projects with a strong focus on sustainable, tropical design.
One of the highlights of my career has been leading teams on over 15 global Apple flagship stores – a decade-long journey that took me from London to Shanghai, and ultimately to Singapore.
I’m a hands-on leader who thrives both in the studio and on-site. I enjoy diving into detail and resolving complex challenges to ensure both design quality and delivery. I’m also a committed mentor – curious, open-minded, and passionate about building high-performing, independent teams.
Before joining Foster + Partners, I worked in London at Allies and Morrison on major projects like the London Design Museum, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, and Rambert Dance HQ. My portfolio spans healthcare, education, hospitality, mixed-use, cultural, commercial, residential and retail – experience that enables me to bring a broad, integrated perspective to every project.
- If someone were to describe you, what would they say?
Creative, calm under pressure, and grounded in values. A thoughtful listener who balances big-picture vision with precise attention to detail. A team-builder who leads with empathy and brings purpose to the work.
- Where did it all start? What drew you to architecture in the first place?
Art was my first love – I was that kid who was always drawing, painting, printing, or creating. I excelled in art at school, but I wanted a path with a more tangible outcome than fine art. Growing up in London, I was surrounded by architectural icons, and architecture became the obvious way to channel creativity into something lasting and impactful.
I quickly realised that artistic skill is only one part of what makes great architecture. True architecture blends form, function, and context. It serves people’s needs, enhances its environment, and leaves a lasting emotional imprint.
- Do you have a particular design philosophy or approach that informs your work?
Absolutely – my design philosophy is rooted in human-centric, sustainable, and context-responsive thinking. Great buildings don’t need to shout; they should quietly serve and inspire.
I believe strongly in storytelling – creating spaces that take people on a journey and evoke a sense of place. Above all, design must start and end with the user. Every decision, from macro to micro, should be grounded in how people will experience and interact with a space.
- What do you love about architecture and design?
The ability to shape how people feel, move, and connect through space. The moment when an abstract concept becomes real – the magic of seeing something built. The creative collaboration with clients and teams from different cultures and backgrounds.
- What are you passionate about (work or personal)? What lights you up?
Building strong design cultures that foster innovation, curiosity, and growth. Working with visionary clients who challenge convention for a greater good. Mentoring young designers and helping them find their voice. And using sustainability as a creative constraint – not a checklist, but a spark for innovation.
For me personally: spending time with my kids and seeing the world through their eyes.
- You’ve worked all over the globe… similarities/differences Europe vs Asia?
There’s a shared desire everywhere for spaces that feel authentic and elevate purpose. But there are differences: in Asia, things often move faster, and clients are more open to experimentation. In Europe, heritage and regulation play a larger role, and the layers of cultural context are deeper. Singapore is a unique fusion of both – efficient, multicultural, and forward-thinking.
- Top three standout moments of your career?
- London Design Museum (Kensington) – Early in my career at Allies and Morrison, I led the restoration and recladding of the former Commonwealth Institute. Collaborating with John Pawson CBE on the interior was a rare and rewarding opportunity.
- Hangzhou MixC Apple Store – One of the first Foster + Partners-designed Apple stores. The complexity – 14m-high structural glass façades, cantilevered slabs, and rapid construction – demanded constant presence and precision. I was on site every day during the final month. Sharing the opening day with my newborn son and Apple’s global team was unforgettable.
- Apple Marina Bay Sands – The most ambitious Apple flagship ever, with entirely bespoke systems and construction challenges compounded by COVID. I led a virtual tour for Cupertino execs on launch day and have since hosted design tours, including for the World Architecture Festival.
- Why Siren? What motivated you to join our team?
There’s a strong alignment of values: a purpose-driven, human-first, non-hierarchical culture. I see an opportunity to shape and grow the Singapore studio in a meaningful way – both creatively and culturally.
Siren’s bold, generous energy stands out – and I find that deeply inspiring.
- What is it about Singapore that you enjoy the most?
The way the city balances urban life with lush, tropical nature. You can feel the climate and greenery throughout the built environment. The cultural diversity and receptiveness to design innovation also set it apart. And personally, it’s an ideal place to raise a family while doing meaningful creative work.
- What do you hope to achieve in your role?
To raise the creative bar and deepen the studio’s presence across the region. Build an ambitious, nurturing team culture. Forge strong, lasting client relationships and broaden the project mix. And to be a steward of Siren’s values while evolving its identity in Singapore.
- If you were to be known for one thing, what would it be?
Being a trusted, empathetic leader who helps people and ideas reach their full potential.