Stuart Mosscrop, Architect, Executive Director for Central Milton Keynes & South Milton Keynes 1976-1980

Stuart was born in Bradford, Yorkshire just before WW2 and attended the local boys grammar. Having decided to try architecture, he joined a local practice for experience (including some work with Derek Walker in 1958/59), then applied to the Architectural Association (AA) for their four-year diploma, obtaining grants for his studies. He found the studies demanding but ‘it stood us in good stead’; and he recalls inspiring tutors such as Arthur Korn (from the Bauhaus), the Smithsons and John Winter. Fellow students included Chris Woodward, Jeremy Dixon, Mike Gold, and Nigel Pickles. After qualifying, he returned north and worked with some other practices.
Stuart then spent 3 years in Chicago as a ‘post-grad’: remarkable work was happening there. He worked for Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and encountered exciting architects, many had worked for Mies van der Rohe. Work included Grand Rapids Michigan HQ building and a building for Skokie Federal Savings and Loan. After returning to the UK with his family, Stuart worked for Derek Walker for a spell until they had a disagreement; he left, and worked for other practices.