We report, for the first time, structural transformation and photoluminescence behavior by calcination of layered europium-doped yttrium hydroxide (LYH:Eu) intercalate with organic sensitizer terephthalate (TA). The calcined samples displayed tunable luminescent performance dependent on calcined temperatures. Calcination under low temperatures (200 and 300 degrees C) retained layered structure, while high temperatures (>400 degrees C) yielded oxide phase. The optimal fluorescence occurred in 200 degrees C-calcination, possibly resulting from an optimal arrangement of TA. Above 200 degrees C, the luminescence intensity was first weakened and then enhanced, due to gradual departure of TA and following occurrence of oxide phase. The energy transfer presented an intrinsic transition from TA-to-Eu3+ in the organic intercalate to O2--to-Eu3+ charge transfer in as-transformed oxide. The predominant luminescence property of the hybrid material can provide valuable guide for developing tunable luminescent materials, especially flexible materials resulting from the containing organic component. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.