We are a residential architecture studio based in the Southern Highlands of NSW, dedicated to designing self-confident, thoughtful homes that feel as good as they look. We design spaces that are as unique as their settings, working with clients across the Southern Highlands and the Illawarra — from our home-towns of Bowral and Mittagong, down to Wollongong, Kiama, and beyond.
Who are we
Amanda and Daniel have spent their lives living and working in the Southern Highlands, building deep connections with its people and places. Our work is driven by a commitment to excellent design and meaningful partnerships with our clients and collaborators.
Amanda
Amanda's design philosophy centers on creating spaces that feel like home — not just functional, but deeply connected to how people actually lead their daily lives.
She has been captivated by architecture since day one — the kind of kid who would lie on the living room carpet drawing floorplans and imagining the lives lived within the spaces.
This approach of creativity and curiosity has carried through her architectural life — from high school work experience at a local studio, to her university days in Newcastle, to co-founding Studio179 (now ZF Architects) in 2022 — informing her belief that the best architecture grows from understanding the small moments that make life meaningful.
Amanda loves to travel (after completing her studies, she spent 6 months exploring with an around-the-world ticket and a backpack) and to spend slow weekends working in the garden.
Daniel
Daniel took the long and winding route to architecture.
A creative writing honours degree followed by over a decade of working in different areas of construction led him to studying architecture during the (somewhat) quiet hours of late evenings and early mornings.
He brings a storyteller's approach to his work, fascinated by how spaces can guide people through emotional journeys.
Daniel is curious about architecture and craft in all its forms and scales, from the grand gesture of a building's silhouette to the intimate detail of how a door handle feels in your hand. He looks forward to the days when he will be able to spend more time tinkering with furniture in his workshop.
Our Philosophy
Gentle designs, thoughtfully executed — this is what we live by.
‘Gentle design’ recognises that architecture begins with people. It’s about building a meaningful connection between the architect and client, to understand not just what you want from a home, but why you want it.
The vision is to create self-confident homes that feel as good as they look — where the experience of living is as carefully considered as the aesthetic qualities. We create spaces that are thoughtful, one-of-a-kind, and a true reflection of the lives lived within them.
Our Approach
Our process is grounded in our philosophy of gentle design and can be broken down into three stages.
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We start by getting to know you — what you're hoping to create and why it matters. We dedicate significant time early in the project to understanding what success really looks like for you. Through listening, thoughtful questions, and sometimes playful interactive exercises, we build a deep understanding of your story, your daily rhythms, and your dreams for the space. We don't rush into drawing because we've learned that the best designs grow from this foundation of genuine connection and understanding.
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Once we've developed a clear vision together, we begin shaping and documenting the design for approval. This stage is where our initial conversations and observations start taking physical form and begin to translate into spaces that feel unmistakably like you. We work collaboratively, refining and adjusting until the design captures not just what you need functionally, but what will make you feel truly at home.
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Finally, we go deep on the details. This is where materials, textures, and all the practical elements come into play, with clear documentation that guides the builder in bringing the vision to life. Every detail is considered through the lens of gentle design - choosing finishes that will age gracefully, details that feel good to touch, and solutions that bring small moments of joy to daily life. It's about creating spaces that work beautifully without shouting about it.
What our clients and collaborators say
“The renovation has completely changed the way we use the house. We have been able to entertain in a way never previously possible and it is a joy to share the space with such ease. It has been a particularly lovely way to start a cold morning with breakfast by the fire and we have enjoyed many days together with winter sun pouring in throughout the space.”
Eliza and John, Bowral Garden Room
“We have collaborated with Amanda and Daniel on several client-based residential projects over the years. Their consistent professionalism, innovative thinking, and dedication to design excellence have made them highly valued partners. Amanda and Daniel are efficient, detail-oriented, and highly responsive. They communicate clearly and proactively, ensuring that timelines are met and that project objectives are always front of mind. Their collaborative approach makes them a pleasure to work with. We look forward to continuing our working relationship and wouldn't hesitate to recommend ZF Architects to others seeking intelligent, high-quality architectural outcomes.”
Luke Hines, Gibraltar Construction