Mo Jacobsen by YSG

Mo Jacobsen by YSG is a deeply layered and meticulously curated transformation of a Victorian home in Fitzroy North, Melbourne.

YSG began the renovation of Mo Jacobsen by stripping the heritage home back to its core structure. The resulting house is comprised of approximately one third original residence and two thirds the modern reimagining, cohesively joined by warm materials. Key to modernising the dwelling was welcoming extra sunlight, adding colourful vibrancy and leaving a minimal environmental footprint, which was aided by the use of hempcrete as a core building material.

YSG ensured the home embodied a delicate balance between heritage preservation and contemporary expression while also being playful and experimental.

YSG ensured the home embodied a delicate balance between heritage preservation and contemporary expression while also being playful and experimental. The material palette includes traditional mudbrick, which increases thermal mass and slowly transfers heat. The tactile quality of natural lime-wash finishes allows the house to breathe while creating a canvas for light to animate, and a peach-hued corridor paved with terracotta tiles acts as a spine for connecting spaces, leading to reconfigured amenities such as the laundry, powder room and main bathroom.

The transition between the old and new parts of the house is subtle, with only flooring markers acknowledging the point of connection. Custom timber joinery is constructed from Queensland maple, which is expressive in its grain and suitable for residential settings. Bold tiles and textiles connect to the Australian landscape and flora through earthy tones, while peach tones, blues and soft greens lend a tranquil character. Coloured glass windows and pastel sheer drapery then soften the inner experience.

Bold tiles and textiles connect to the Australian landscape and flora through earthy tones, while peach tones, blues and soft greens lend a tranquil character.

Balancing eras, textures and tones, YSG infused Mo Jacobsen with a unique spirit expressive of its occupants. The team crafted a home that celebrates the past yet welcomes the future and becomes a haven primed for recharge and respite.

Architecture and interior design by YSG. Build by LocBuild. Landscape design by Blackbird Horticulture.