Discovered on a brochure at a local real estate agent in Aldinga, John and Yvonne saw potential in a desolate, unloved stone farmhouse located off the beaten track in Myponga.
To save on time and cost, their architect advised them to build elsewhere on the land and use the existing buildings as sheds and storage. However, John saw this as a loss of material and human energy to start again and challenged his architect to come up with a design that could simply make it work. The project started in 2008 and took a very long three years to complete. 
They joined 'trees for life', and along with their three children, Lara, Pia and Toby, and many friends, they planted around 4000 local eucalyptus and acacia trees around the property. Today, the land is in better condition in both built form and landscape than it has ever been. 

As designers, they wanted to create something unique, adding their own textiles, restored furniture and a collection of artwork to create the feel of a 'mini museum' of contemporary art and design. Although the interior of the property has been transformed, the original stonework of the exterior has been left untouched. 

Lapito House is named after John and Yvonne's three kids Lara, Pia and Toby, and has been a country getaway for the family and their two dogs Hugo and Doug for many years. 
What was once a hidden treasure down the end of a dirt road, is now shared with others to escape, explore and enjoy. The best part? Pets are most welcome. 
Pia and her husband Mike, along with their two children Walter and Darcy took over in 2022. It has certainly had its challenges, but what an adventure it has been. If you'd like to stay, contact Pia. She would love to hear from you.