In the world of home design, partnerships as harmonious, humorous, and effective as James Woodford and Travers Cunnington of F3 Studio are rare. Based on the principles of form, function, and that intangible sense of comfort and belonging – or soul – design duo specialises in crafting bespoke residential spaces. From custom renovations to entirely new builds, their work reflects an emphasis on collaboration, creativity, technical expertise, and a thorough understanding of what makes a house truly feel like home.

A Partnership That Delivers.

James and Travers bring complementary skills to the table, creating a partnership built on trust, communication, and shared goals. James, a certified building designer, focuses on built form and the details that hold it together, drawing on over two decades of architectural experience. As F3’s interior designer, Travers creates functional spaces that meet the clients’ needs, and brings them to life with fixtures, finishes and textures.

This balance of skills ensures F3 Studio consistently delivers designs that exceed expectations. Clients praise their collaborative approach, attention to detail, and ability to listen Whether reimagining an inner-city home or creating a grand coastal retreat, F3 Studio translates visions into spaces that are beautiful, functional, and sustainable.

What is their secret sauce?

A house becomes a home not just through bricks and mortar, but through its relationship to place and the lives it shelters. F3 Studio’s success lies not just in their complementary skills but in their ability to humanise design. James and Travers understand the harmony between a houses physical form and the intangible forces that shape our experience of it.

Design goes beyond the practicalities of warmth, light, and ventilation. A home connects to its inhabitants on a deeply personal level. When design respects place and considers how people live and move, within a space, it transforms into something more—a humanised sanctuary that reflects its occupants’ identities and aspirations. This is where building design becomes an art form and F3 Studio elevate. By curating the needs, habits, and emotions of the people it houses, a space stops being merely functional and starts being alive. It embraces the daily rituals of its residents, creates moments of wonder and calm, allows for adaptation, and offers a sense of belonging. This holistic approach, weaving a sense of place with human-centric design, is what makes F3 Studio’s houses not just structures but a home— places that breathe and evolve with its inhabitants.

Designing for Today and Tomorrow.

F3 Studio is more than a design practice; it’s a philosophy. Travers and James believe in creating homes that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also resilient, adaptable, and sustainable. In a world where families are living together longer, and spaces need to do more with less, their work stands out for its focus on efficiency and long-term value.

From Port Melbourne to Portsea: Projects That Inspire.

F3 Studio’s portfolio speaks volumes about their expertise and creativity. From the Edwardian elegance of their Malvern East renovation, where the kitchen is the heart of a vibrant family space, to the bold design of Brunswick House, which seamlessly integrates urban living with timeless design, their work showcases thoughtful planning and impeccable craftsmanship.

At Shoreham House, breathtaking views of Western Port and Phillip Island are complemented by a design that blends the warmth of a lodge with the openness of a beach house. Meanwhile Murrumbeena House brings a period home into the present, with a modern extension that also embraces the client’s love of mid-century design.

Merricks Beach House is another testament to their approach, transforming a modest three-bedroom cottage into a serene escape for a family of five. With a calming neutral palette and subtle design enhancements, this project proves that simplicity and functionality can coexist beautifully.

Why Choose F3 Studio?

What sets F3 Studio apart is their ability to thoroughly understand their clients’ needs and turn them into exceptional individual designs. Their collaborative approach and professionalism consistently leave a lasting impression. “F3 provided us with a sense of ease, collaboration and confidence. They were able to help us maintain a clear plan forward for our dream home, and always within a realistic budget.”

Their dedication to sustainability and timelessness ensures every project aligns with their clients’ values while standing the test of time. Serving clients across Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula—from Port Melbourne to Portsea—they are a trusted name for those seeking thoughtful, high-quality residential design.

Designed to Last, Designed for You.

F3 Studio’s philosophy goes beyond trends. They create homes where every decision, from the placement of a window to the selection of finishes, is intentional. These are homes that feel good to live in—practical, beautiful, and designed with care for the environment and future generations.

With over 30 years of combined experience, James and Travers bring passion, expertise, and genuine care to every project. Their approach is collaborative, respectful, and grounded in a desire to create spaces that not only meet but exceed their clients’ expectations.

Our Journey with F3 Studio.

At Love the Pen, we don’t just write about design; we immerse ourselves in it. Our coverage of F3 Studio comes from hours of research, in-depth conversations with James and Travers, and visits to several of their stunning projects. From the thoughtful integration of form and function to the stories woven into every home they create, it’s clear they live and breathe their craft.

Seeing their work firsthand—and hearing their clients’ glowing testimonials—leaves no doubt in our minds: F3 Studio is shaping the future of residential design. By the end of our journey with them, we too were imagining a home designed by F3 Studio—a testament to the impact of their vision,

expertise and their capacity to foster trust.

Start Your Journey with F3 Studio.

Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy renovation, planning a new build, or envisioning a multi-generational space designed to evolve with your family, F3 Studio is your partner in creating a home that truly reflects your life and values. Take a moment to explore their folio, then say hi – perhaps grab a coffee – and take the first step towards designing a home you’ll love for years to come.