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Philip Cox
Founder - Cox Architecture
Professional Background
Philip Cox is a distinguished architect whose vision and expertise have significantly influenced the architectural landscape in Australia and beyond. As the founding partner of COX Architecture, he has shaped a firm renowned for its innovative designs and commitment to excellence. After beginning his practice alongside Ian McKay in 1963, Philip established Philip Cox and Associates in 1964, which later evolved into the prominent COX Architecture that is well-respected in the field today.
COX Architecture stands out for its bold approach to design, focusing not just on aesthetics but also on functionality and sustainability. Under Philip's leadership, the firm has undertaken numerous landmark projects, leaving a lasting impact on urban environments in Australia and internationally. As a key player in the architectural community, he has also embraced the roles of mentor and educator, sharing his passion for architecture with future generations.
Education and Achievements
Philip Cox's academic journey began at the prestigious University of Sydney, where he graduated with honors in architecture in 1962. His commitment to lifelong learning and professional development led him to further his studies in town and country planning, earning a diploma in 1972 from the same university. His impressive academic achievements were recognized early on, as he received the Royal Australian Institute of Architects (RAIA) silver medal for excellence in architectural studies and the NSW Board of Architects Travelling Scholarship, which enabled him to expand his horizons and gain international experience in the field.
As a Professor of Architecture at the University of New South Wales, Philip has shaped the minds of aspiring architects, providing them with the skills and insights needed to thrive in a competitive industry. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field and his role in fostering architectural education, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Science in 2000.
Throughout his illustrious career, Philip Cox has garnered numerous accolades for his work, solidifying his reputation as a leader in architecture. He received the prestigious RAIA Gold Medal in 1984, followed by the Life Fellowship award from the RAIA in 1987, and an Honorary Fellowship from the American Institute of Architects the same year, showcasing his international standing in the profession. His dedication to enhancing the architectural realm led to his receiving the Order of Australia in 1988 for his services to architecture, further highlighting his impact on the community.
Philip has also been recognized for his contributions to the intersection of sports and architecture, receiving the inaugural award for Sport and Architecture in 1993 from the International Olympic Committee. In addition, he was elected as a Fellow of the Royal College of Humanities, a testament to his broad intellectual contributions. As an accomplished author, Philip has published nine books, which delve into the rich history of Australia’s towns and buildings, serving as valuable resources for architectural enthusiasts and historians alike.
Current Engagements
In his current role as an independent consultant at COX Architecture, Philip remains actively engaged in landmark projects, particularly those located overseas in countries such as Singapore, China, and Malaysia. His international collaborations not only expand his professional repertoire but also enable him to bring global architectural trends and insights back to Australia, enriching the local landscape with diverse influences.
Moreover, Philip serves as an independent Non-Executive Director and is a member of the ESOS Committee for UEM Sunrise Malaysia, contributing his expertise to broader developmental projects in the region. This dual focus on practical consultancy and theoretical contributions through education positions Philip as a key figure in contemporary architecture, embodying both practice and scholarship.
Achievements
- Founding partner of COX Architecture
- RAIA Gold Medal (1984)
- Life Fellowship of the RAIA (1987)
- Honorary Fellowship of the American Institute of Architects (1987)
- Order of Australia for services to architecture (1988)
- Inaugural award for Sport and Architecture from the International Olympic Committee (1993)
- Elected Fellow of the Royal College of Humanities
- Author of nine published books on Australia’s towns and buildings
- Honorary Doctorate of Science from the University of New South Wales (2000)