Modernist Revival – ISO by Ply Architecture

Fusing old and new, ISO combines the openness of contemporary living with a series of retreat spaces that integrate the familiar placidity of home life. Ply Architecture focuses on creating new connections between inside and out, increasing and celebrating visuals and flow throughout whilst reorienting movement around the core of the residence.

Located in Adelaide’s inner west, ISO is reinvigorated through a more contemporary lens. Wanting to emphasise the family home as a place of gathering, what was once a U-shaped form is now opened through an outward-facing approach. Taking inspiration from both traditional modernists and Palm Springs, the entire site has been considered, integrating outdoor living into the landscape as a key component of how the residence is experienced daily. Ply Architecture brings a curated style to all elements inside and out to propose an enduring, low-maintenance residence.

Taking inspiration from both traditional modernists and Palm Springs, the entire site has been considered, integrating outdoor living into the landscape as a key component of how the residence is experienced daily.

The renovated house creates newly considered connections both internally and beyond the site’s edges to the surrounding area. As both a renovation and addition effort, a central and open outdoor space allows natural light and heat to enter whilst removing the original separation between spaces. Reflecting on how homes are occupied today, the existing fabric of the building is retained and, instead of being discarded, is reintegrated into a more open, flowing plan with considered interventions that encourage indoor-outdoor living.

Tucked behind the existing façade and form, the newly integrated outdoor rooms create destinations of their own. The inground pool reflects the nearby proximity to the ocean and emphasises the connection to water. Whilst openness is key, maintaining a sense of privacy and retreat also became key in deciding which elements to open and which to keep more enclosed. The existing rooms are then utilised for their sense of separation, aligning with the passive nature of rest, whilst the connected living spaces encourage togetherness. Throughout the home, a balance of muted tones binds the new and existing across the site, whereas the introduction of warm timber adds texture and offers a natural connection.

Ply Architecture brings a curated style to all elements inside and out to propose an enduring, low-maintenance residence.

Balancing the large, oversized pavers that sit expressively throughout the landscaped areas that surround the residence, ISO comes together as a calming and immersive retreat. By retaining and reusing elements, Ply Architecture ensures the longevity of the home with this fresh reconfiguration that focuses on openness.