Viridi Residential Building: A Landmark of Computational Design and Sustainable Urban Living in Melbourne

The Viridi Residential Building, designed by Plus Architecture, represents a bold evolution in contemporary residential architecture. Located in Melbourne, this innovative apartment complex redefines urban living through advanced computational design, environmental responsiveness, and a striking material identity.

Developed in collaboration with Little Projects and constructed by Cobild, Viridi stands as a visual and technological landmark in Prahran. Spanning 7,777 m², the project was completed in 2022 and introduces a new architectural language shaped by geometry, color, and sustainability.

A Sculptural Roofscape Inspired by Nature

At the heart of Viridi’s design is its distinctive “hill-like” roof form, which transforms the building into a dynamic sculptural presence. The façade is clad with over 15,000 handcrafted terracotta tiles, forming a mosaic-like surface that shifts in tone and texture.

These tiles, produced by TEJAS BORJA, are glazed in three shades of green inspired directly by nearby park foliage. This thoughtful material selection allows the building to visually blend with its surroundings while simultaneously standing out as a contemporary icon.

Computational Design Meets Craftsmanship

One of the most groundbreaking aspects of the project is its use of computational design. The architects developed a custom scripting system to map tile placement, color distribution, and pattern sequencing across the complex façade.

Using advanced 3D modeling, the team simulated how natural light would interact with the tiles throughout the day. This data-driven approach ensured both aesthetic precision and environmental performance, resulting in a façade that behaves almost like a living surface.

The installation process mirrored a “painting-by-numbers” method, where each tile was carefully positioned according to the digital model. This fusion of digital technology and manual craftsmanship highlights a new paradigm in architectural production.

Engineering Innovation and Structural Complexity

Behind the visually expressive façade lies a sophisticated structural system. The building incorporates a custom blue steel truss framework, developed in partnership with Dynamic Steel Frame, to support the angled geometry and heavy tile load.

Large glazed openings, some weighing over 500 kg, are seamlessly integrated into the structure, providing expansive views of Melbourne’s skyline while maintaining structural integrity.

The unique raked form of the building was also a response to local planning constraints, ensuring minimal overshadowing of adjacent gardens and pedestrian pathways. This demonstrates how regulatory challenges can inspire creative architectural solutions.

Sustainability and Environmental Performance

Viridi is not only visually compelling but also environmentally responsible. The building has achieved a 7-star ESD (Environmentally Sustainable Design) rating, reflecting its commitment to high-performance residential design.

Key sustainable features include:

• Double-glazed windows for improved thermal efficiency
• Integrated insulation within the façade system
• Passive solar design maximizing natural daylight
• Advanced waterproofing meeting FP1.4 compliance standards

The angled façade enhances daylight penetration, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and improving indoor comfort for residents.

Urban Integration and Community Activation

Beyond its architectural expression, Viridi contributes meaningfully to the urban fabric of Prahran. The development includes 43 residential apartments across seven levels, complemented by ground-floor retail and approximately 500 sqm of office space.

The project emphasizes pedestrian engagement and connectivity, revitalizing the street interface and strengthening links to adjacent parklands. This approach aligns with contemporary urban design principles that prioritize walkability, mixed-use development, and community interaction.

A New Benchmark for Residential Architecture

The Viridi Residential Building sets a new benchmark for parametric architecture, sustainable housing, and façade innovation in Australia. By merging computational design tools with traditional materials and forward-thinking engineering, the project exemplifies how architecture can be both technologically advanced and deeply contextual.

It stands as a testament to how design can respond to environmental, urban, and aesthetic challenges simultaneously, creating spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring.

All photographs are works of  Tom Roe