Fairbairn, Richard Robert

Richard Robert Fairbairn trained as an architect at the Architectural Association in London and was elected an Associate of the Royal institute of British Architects (ARIBA) in 1939. He evidently served with distinction during World War Two as he was awarded the Military Cross and the Legion of Merit (USA).

In 1948, with Howard Watkins and Reginald E. H. Croft, he became a partner in the London architectural practice Howard & Souster which became Howard, Souster & Partners. In March 1953 the practice was renamed Howard, Souster & Fairbairn.

Architectural projects by Howard, Souster & Fairbairn included 13 Fenchurch Avenue and Fen Court, City of London (1955); 9-11 Billiter Square, City of London (1955); Office block, Saracen's Head Yard, City of London (1955); 28-35 Minories, City of London (1955); 24-29 Rood Lane, City of London (1958); Factory for Borg-Warner Ltd, Letchworth (1958); and Knollys House in Byward Street, London (1962). During the 1950s the firm designed offices for the General Motors building in Southampton.