Robert Rowlands comes from Capel Bangor, Aberystwyth. He was educated at Penweddig School, Aberystwyth, and it was there he developed an interest in crafts and design, especially with wood as his raw material. Whilst at school, he won a top award in the arts and crafts section at the Urdd National Eisteddfod. He graduated with honours in three-dimensional design, specialising in furniture, from Bucks College, High Wycombe, and received his first commission after showing some pieces at the Direct Design and British Contemporary Furniture Show.