Christopher Stringer

Director

Chris’s mind works differently. He’s a visual problem-solver and “sees” things in terms of space, volume, texture and materiality. Chris is our Revit specialist and is responsible for developing our templates and 3D objects (a mammoth task!).

If anyone has a problem or question about CAD—we turn to Chris. His technical prowess means he can solve technical problems with his eyes *nearly* closed. And he can find information at lightning speed (seriously, he’s that fast).

On the weekend you’ll find him wrestling his sons Oskar & Otis on the sand or strumming his guitar.

Chris is a registered Architect and a registered Design Practitioner. He became a director and shareholder in the business in 2024.

Peter Couvaras

Managing Director

“I want to create moments of delight in the everyday… transform something ordinary into something that makes a person feel good to be in that space. Apartment buildings are no different— first light of day, the glow of a sunset, an uplifting sense of space, or an unexpected vista… these are the moments that make the ordinary less mundane.”
— Peter Couvaras

You won’t find many architects like Peter. He’s a registered architect (with 20+ years architectural experience) and he’s business-minded (with 10+ years in business management).

By understanding good design and commercial realities, he can bring to life his client’s vision and unlock real investment value.

As a calm and unflappable leader, Peter inspires the team through his actions. He’s a no nonsense, no ego type of guy who values honesty and authenticity in his clients and colleagues.

Practicality is always at the forefront for Peter, but he’ll never compromise on good design. He believes in getting things right. (This usually means piles of butter paper and lots of trial and error.) 

Peter’s happy place is on the water.  Whether it’s taking a morning dip at South Cronulla beach or sailing on Bate Bay.

Felix Antonius

Project Architect

You can’t help but like Felix. He’s direct, doesn’t stand for nonsense, and gets the job done without fuss. He’s also passionate about great design and helping the next generation become great architects. Felix is very generous with his knowledge and genuinely enjoys mentoring new graduates and work experience students.

Felix ran his own successful practice for many years before joining Couvaras Architects. So he knows the ropes and maintains our high standards—nothing gets past Felix.

We call him the powerhouse because he takes no prisoners, and makes a mean coffee (short black is his poison of choice).

Chris Austin

Architect

We call him Austin (because there’s only room for one Chris in the office).

Austin is often mistaken as being “quiet”, but in reality, he’s the master of wisecracks and quick wit. He is perceptive, his listening skills are extraordinary, and his Revit skills are superhuman.

Austin works tirelessly and is always the first one to lend a hand if someone needs help.  Before becoming a draftsman, Austin worked in the construction industry and has worked on many high profile projects in the residential sector.

To unwind, Austin enjoys going for a surf and playing 18 holes.

Austin is now registered.

Jeremy Curtain

Architect

Jeremy joined the team in 2019 and achieved registration with the NSW Architects registration board soon after. He holds a Masters of Architecture, and a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of New South Wales. Fuelled by a passion for all things architecture and a severe coffee addiction, Jeremy comes from a residential background and enjoys working across small and large scale projects and exploring the intersection of both programs.

Combining a passion for sustainability with an appreciation of form, Jeremy enjoys the collaborative nature of our work and working closely with consultants and clients to reach the best outcome.

As the newest dad in the office, we feed his coffee addiction to keep him alert & working.

Kim Baltoski

Office Manager

We all need a Kim in our lives. She keeps things on track and running smoothly at Couvaras. If Kim says she’ll do something, she’ll do it. 

Kim is our resident finance and accounting wizard. She takes care of all invoicing and keeps the IT system under control—and she does it all with a smile. 

Callum Payne

Student & Architectural Assistant

Callum joined the team in 2022 and apart from lowering the average age in the office, he has become a valuable contributor to the office. He is a very capable & competent individual and we are forever indebted to his neighbour for introducing him to us.

Currently working on his Masters Degree, Callum juggles university and work with his passion for golf. During Covid lockdowns he could often be found sneaking through the fence and playing a few rounds with his twin brother (not an architect).

Cilla Louis

Student & Architectural Assistant

Cilla joined the team in 2024, trading early mornings at the bakery for CAD files and peppermint tea fuelled design chats. Since then, she’s brought a sharp eye for detail, a calm presence under pressure, and tolerates Austin’s dry humour in the office.

Currently studying a Bachelor of Architecture & Environments at the University of Sydney, Cilla balances university deadlines with project work — and still somehow finds time to agonise over waterproofing details.