Purity and simplicity are at the core of the brand’s philosophy. This is evident in the innovation of form and function of the products and environments the brand represents. The practical, adaptable and durable nature of the brand is relevant in creating products that create a lasting connection with the customer.

As a designer, I believe above all in function and adaptability in design. I create designs that I feel fulfil a need. I feel very passionate about my research of the kept object in which I have been investigating individual’s connection to their retained objects. The question I ask is, why are we connected to certain things and can we adapt this knowledge to modern design?

Zema Show Off Lox Box bookshelf

An element of the business that allows the user to feel more connected to the piece is the option for customisation. All of the current designs are available in standard ranges with the option for a variety of amendments or additions at the customer’s request.

When designing I am very aware of the cost of labour in Australia for the production per piece. This influences the designs greatly in making them as pure to their function and materiality as possible, creating a simple thing of beauty. Locking connections between elements of the furniture is a recurring theme in my work. These locks are both physically functional as well as intriguing to behold. The locking connection is also a reference to the person’s connection to the piece.

Zema Designs produces pieces that are designed and made to last, with their simple function, elegance and adaptability.

Trained at the College of Fine Arts Sydney, Cunningham specialised in furniture and interior design. Since graduating in 2005, she has designed a piece of furniture every year.

The first year was her Show Off shelving unit, while the following year she designed a coffee table-side table set called Steppe. This year Cunningham created Silhouette, a screen that doubles as a hat stand.

Zema Hat Stand and Screen

Design Education:
2001-2005 Bachelor of Design with Honours
University of New South Wales
College of Fine Arts

    * Joint Coordinator of Graduate Exhibition 2004
    * Finalist in Object Gallery New Design 2005
    * Graduation May 2006

Springboard Project 2008-2009

Stage 1 2008

Stage 2 2008-2009

Design Work:
2005 Woodmark International Furniture Sydney
work experience

2005-2008 Westfield Design & Construction Sydney
Creative Designer

2006-2008 Jenline Interiors
Prototyping and production.

2006-2009 Zema Deisngs
Design Business

Zema Steppe Stools

Zema Steppe Coffee Table