Kaurna people
South Australia
Yeo-Yo is a carefully considered alteration and addition to a modest 1925 bungalow, shaped by geometry and light. Retaining and repairing the original north-facing house to anchor the streetscape, the new work unfolds behind as a series of curved forms organised around a circular internal garden. This garden replaces the conventional backyard, drawing light and landscape deep into the plan and establishing a continuous spatial loop.
A Catalan-inspired brick barrel vault defines the living space, rising to 5.6 metres and introducing scale, spatial drama and shifting light. The vault is constructed in dry-pressed brick, its geometry and craftsmanship a contemporary marvel of traditional techniques.
Light and geometry stitch old and new into a continuous spatial experience, reintroducing masonry vaulting as a primary architectural element within Adelaide’s contemporary residential context.
In its 100th year, it has been a privilege to see our bungalow refreshed and transitioned into its next era. The blending of heritage features with contemporary interventions has created a calm and welcoming home to return to each day.
On arrival, the hallway draws us through to the new living space beyond. It is here that the brick barrel vault reveals itself, working in concert with large glass doors and windows to connect the interior to the changing colour of the sky. To share a space of such character and generosity with our friends-and-family truly feels like a gift.