Via Verde is a mixed-income residential development offering innovative, high-quality sustainable design and affordable rental and ownership housing at a range of income levels, combined with health-focused amenities. The building is internationally recognized as a model of mixed income housing, green and healthy urban living.
The project includes 222 mixed income residential units, with 40,000SF of green roofs. Robert Garneau led the Grimshaw team from the initial competition through to project completion (In collaboration with Dattner as Executive Architect). Via Verde is critically acclaimed as an exemplary project, with over 20 design awards, extensive publications featuring Robert, and numerous international delegations led by Robert.
The building ascends in a spiral beginning at a courtyard with townhouses into a series of roof gardens up to a 20 story tower. The roofscape is a promenade for residents, a place to grow food, rainwater is captured and re-used. South facing walls and roof canopies feature photovoltaic panels while the main building is clad in a prefabricated rainscreen with sunshades and balconies. Innovative interior layouts include duplex apartments with alternating corridors and full floor units. All units are designed to have dual exposure for optimal daylight and ventilation.