ABOUT PORTICO
We are architects and designers that are driven by a steadfast commitment to detail and the unwavering standards of quality. We work passionately to create homes, buildings and places that are beautifully built, practical and inspiring. We believe that good architecture enriches our lives.
Portico is a full-service architectural firm specializing in tropical architecture along with interior design, urban planning and landscape consultancy.
Portico’s philosophy is driven by great environmentally friendly design, as we partner with the client to balance the architecture with the natural environment of the landscape, integrating sustainable materials and systems. This passion allows us to adapt the built environment using natural materials and finishes, as we blur the line between inside-and-out enhancing the tropical lifestyle experience.
Vision
At Portico design doesn’t begin with a sketch. It begins with a story that captures the aspirations of our clients.
PROMISE
We allow Jamaica’s natural elements into your lives by blurring the lines in design between inside and outside, so they fill us with feelings of wellbeing, balance and happiness.
AMBITION
As architects we engage with nature by taking into consideration such things as cooling breezes and vegetation, views and the energy we use for our comfort. Good design should balance these things in a way that the whole house engages with our Caribbean paradise.
THE PARTNERS
The formation of Portico Limited in 1996 brought together the design creativity and experience of Elizabeth A. Newman, an architect, educated and registered in Massachusetts as well as in Jamaica, and Doris C. Gross, designer and project manager with extensive experience in Germany and Jamaica. This union produced a team characterized by a strong work ethic and one dedicated to providing Architectural and Interior Design of the highest quality.
ELIZABETH NEWMAN
During Elizabeth’s younger years, she was drawn to the ocean, animals, nature and the creativity of making art from found objects. After first studying Marine Biology, she discovered Architecture, Interior and Landscape design as the perfect blend of the sciences and art. “To this day, some of my favorite architects are the ones that live in seashells, and nature will always inform my work when appropriate. I love to make and transform living and work spaces into inspiring indoor and outdoor places that nurture our clients’ spirits. I am so grateful to do this in Jamaica.”
Elizabeth’s career and free time interests overlap. Her ideal day is either propagating her favorite plants for use in her projects or walking Jamaica’s beautiful beaches searching for sea glass and other treasures.
DORIS GROSS
“Life is a beautiful garden”
Architectural Designer,Planner, Project Manager
Doris’ path to architecture started with a love of creativity, as well as the natural world. Her early interest in photography created an observant designer who loves details in the natural as well as the built environments,
After obtaining an engineering degree in Germany, she relocated to Jamaica in 1989, gaining experience in architectural design, urban planning and project management.
As a senior designer & partner, she is able to touch each part of a project. Her goal is to use design to enhance the story of the land and the lives of the clients. She focuses on the company’s urban planning projects, on affordable housing and green spaces.
In her free time, Doris finds ways to give back to her community by being a director of Kingston Creative, an NGO that works on the growth of Jamaica’s creative economy and the redevelopment of Downtown Kingston as an Art District including historic restoration, a path she leads for the NGO.
FIONA LYN JOHNSTON
Architect
Fiona has been with Portico since 2001 and is a senior architect with expertise in design development from inception to completion. She graduated from The University of Technology, Jamaica in 1999. As a “doer”, she thrives on tackling complex issues with simple solutions. Working with a creative and passionate team, her main focus is on delivering exceptional designs into the built form.
Fiona is a very detail-oriented person and she brings a dual passion for execution and design to every project.
During moments of escape from architecture she can be seen entangled in her creative handmade crafts. She tries to find ways to combine her creative passions, while continually improving and learning about the various elements of Architecture.
“I pride myself on my multi-talented gifted hands, I believe life is art, and I am the artist of my life. I try to keep it full with my unique designs, while I entertain family and friends with gut-busting re-enactments of an event or situation.”
CLEON MEIKLE
“A detail fanatic”
Architect
Cleon started his love for Architecture and design during high school years when he excelled in the Visual Arts. His practical experience after gaining the Degree in Architecture from The University of Technology, Jamaica in 2002 brought him to Portico in 2004.
A lover of both design and construction management and a stickler for details. He frequently works out new ideas and has a keen eye in identifying beautiful and interesting finishes for interior design projects. When not at Portico or on a construction site, he can be found singing, worshipping and enjoying delectable culinary treats.
GARY EDWARDS
“Loves technology & innovation”
Junior Architect
Gary joined Portico in 2018 as a junior architect after successfully completing his bachelor’s degree in architecture from the University of Technology.
Gary’s interest in technology and his knack for solving problems has propelled him to be an experienced 3D Visualizer and solver of all technical glitches in the office. He carries projects throughout approvals and into the construction stage and enjoys being on site.
Outside of the office, Gary enjoys exploring the art and creative scene, going on new adventures and playing football.