Can highly recommend ZSA. Our project was the demolition of a previous single level extension which was poorly built and replacing it with a new two level extension. We wanted our new living space to be contemporary but it also needed to blend in with the original Victorian era house which is 140 years old. ZSA understood our wish list and were able to make it happen. They had a great working relationship with the builder and other contractors which made the process a lot smoother and less stressful. We could not be happier with the final result.Read More

Mel and Lisa were very responsive and great to work with throughout our Nelson Bay building project. We got the right mix of listening and guidance to deliver a design and floorplan that is striking, maximises rhe potential of the site and is highly functional. Their level of liaison, ideas and solutions shared with both ourselves and the builder throughout the build period also set them apart, as well as the detail inherent in their plans, which the builder told us made their construction task so much easier. Thanks Mel and Lisa - you have envisioned and created a haven that our whole family loves to visit.Read More

Since the very first meeting with Mel and Lisa, they were committed and always accommodated our needs and dreams. Our first encounter started with the meeting on site which helps every to one to understand the landscape and subsequent plans. Along the way, they helped us to understand even the minute details of the building and the precautions to be taken at every step. They were very quick to respond whenever we need their help. Overall, it was a wonderful experience and we are extremely satisfied with their professional skills and personal connections.Read More

On recommendation, I engaged Zugai Strudwick Architects (ZSA) through a phased contract to provide Design, Development Application/s, Certifier requirements that included coordination of all agencies before, during and after Covid19, a difficult period navigated by ZSA to achieve the major renovation of my thirty-year-old home. Primarily, my vision brief was provided to ZSA for the project renovation to consider outcomes of friendly ageing in place, increase in open space additional light to living areas, new internal alfresco with all floor materials/levels equal throughout the house. In addition, considerations for Bush Fire Attack Level (BAL 40) compliance were required and ZSA were forthcoming with relevant solutions and ideas which included newly pitched Colorbond® roofing and compliant windows. In the early stages developing concepts, planning the relocation of kitchen was suggested by ZSA and this turned out to be a key decision, a delight with the expanded living area and light provided with three skylights in a trapezoid void, all on point. The lead up time through the development of detailed plans to construction certification and submissions ZSA supported many changes and updates. As a perfectionist I required exact detail and Lisa and Mel always took my view/requests on for the interest of the project being equally dedicated to achieving the project outcomes. The process through council was relatively painless and this can be attributed to ZSA being thorough in preparations. The builder was engaged by me the owner and there was a seamless relationship between ZSA, Owner and Builder with the very few issues that arose discussed, modifications detailed, solutions provided, and actions all provided by ZSA in a timely manner to ensure builder was not delayed. Communications and collaboration for all matters with Mel & Lisa was positive clear and concise with both very willing to assist which made the renovation journey a good memory. The visions and dreams of open plan living layout reconfigured, kitchen relocation, new alfresco, total bathroom and ensuite reconfiguration all developed by ZSA and were fully aligned to original brief. Without any reservation I can recommend Mel & Lisa’s honest and reliable support to bring together client’s vision, alignment to building standards, modern trends and technologies. With ZSA’s dedication and the builder’s quality finishes the project outcome exceeded my initial expectations and I shall enjoy for many years to come.Read More

I have dealt with Mel and Lisa from the design stage of my renovation to the issuing of the Occupation Certificate. At all stages they have been so accessible, co-operative and helpful. I am thrilled with the result. Penny RossRead More