Mo Jacobsen by YSG represents a masterful transformation of a Victorian home in Fitzroy North, Melbourne, showcasing a delicate interplay between heritage preservation and modern innovation.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Location: Fitzroy North, Melbourne, Australia
Architecture and Interior Design: YSG
Photography: Anson Smart
Styling: YSG
Build: LocBuild
Landscape Design: Blackbird Horticulture
Upon entering the renovation process, YSG took an unyielding approach by stripping the heritage residence back to its core structure. This thoughtful redesign comprises roughly one-third of the original home, seamlessly blended with two-thirds of contemporary reimagining. The result is a space that breathes life and vibrancy, accentuated by the use of warm materials throughout. Emphasizing sustainability, YSG incorporated hempcrete as a core building material, allowing the home to welcome abundant sunlight while minimizing its environmental footprint.
The careful selection of materials establishes a narrative that respects the past while looking boldly toward the future. Traditional mudbrick forms part of the home’s palette, increasing thermal mass and creating a natural warmth. The textured quality of lime-wash finishes not only allows the house to breathe but also provides a dynamic canvas for light to dance across its surfaces. A striking peach-hued corridor, paved with terracotta tiles, serves as the spine of the home, guiding visitors through carefully reconfigured amenities, including the laundry, powder room, and main bathroom.
Transitioning between the old and new sections of the house is a subtle process, marked only by changes in flooring. This seamless integration is designed to evoke a sense of continuity, encouraging exploration and discovery. Custom timber joinery crafted from Queensland maple offers a beautiful expression of grain, bringing warmth and a touch of nature into the interior spaces. Earthy tones in bold tiles and textiles reflect the surrounding Australian landscape, while soft peach, serene blues, and gentle greens infuse the home with a calming atmosphere. The inclusion of colored glass windows and pastel sheer drapery adds to the softness, creating an inviting inner experience.
At the heart of this project lies YSG’s commitment to balancing various eras, textures, and tones, resulting in a unique spirit that embodies the essence of its inhabitants. Mo Jacobsen is not merely a home; it is a haven that celebrates history while embracing modernity. Every element has been thoughtfully curated to foster a sense of recharge and respite, inviting its occupants to reflect and rejuvenate within its walls.
As the home unfolds, each room reveals layers of character that speak to both the past and the future. The artistry of YSG shines through in the playful yet sophisticated design, ensuring that Mo Jacobsen feels both familiar and fresh. The merging of old-world charm with contemporary flair creates a narrative that resonates deeply, allowing the home to tell its story in an engaging manner.
This renovation not only highlights the beauty of design but also emphasizes the importance of sustainability. YSG’s use of hempcrete and other eco-friendly materials reflects a growing trend in architecture that values environmental responsibility without sacrificing style. The home stands as a testament to the idea that modern living can coexist harmoniously with heritage, allowing for a richer, more meaningful lifestyle.
In the world of interior design, Mo Jacobsen by YSG serves as a benchmark for what can be achieved when creative vision meets respect for history. It is a place where the past is honored, the present is celebrated, and the future is bright. With its unique charm and thoughtful design, this home invites both inhabitants and visitors alike to experience a space that is as inspiring as it is livable.
Photography by Anson Smart captures the intricate details and harmonious balance of this remarkable project, while styling by YSG ensures that every corner of Mo Jacobsen is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and welcoming. The collaborative effort of architecture, design, and landscaping is evident, showcasing a home that truly reflects its occupants’ values and aspirations.
