At Irwell Hill in Singapore, two 36-storey residential towers have been completed with a pixelated facade designed by MVRDV. Built using a prefabricated modular system developed by Singapore-based ADDP Architects, the project pairs a repetitive construction logic with a facade that introduces variation and visual identity.

MVRDV’s variegated design highlights communal green spaces on the 24th floor and roof, demonstrating how modular efficiency can coexist with architectural character.

Modular construction in Singapore

Irwell Hill Residences was developed by City Developments Limited (CDL) and marks MVRDV’s first collaboration on a building in Singapore’s urban core. The project was designed by Singapore-based ADDP Architects using prefabricated prefinished volumetric construction (PPVC), a construction method in which entire rooms — including finished surfaces and facades — are manufactured in a factory and assembled on site.

PPVC is widely used in Singapore. By shifting much of the construction process off-site, the method reduces the number of workers required, shortens construction timelines, and limits disruption in dense urban environments. It can also reduce waste and construction-related carbon emissions by minimising transport, equipment use, and site operations.

The Building and Construction Authority of Singapore has supported the adoption of such methods through regulations, frameworks, and accreditation schemes aimed at improving productivity in the construction industry.

Introducing variation within repetition

While PPVC offers efficiencies, its application can also produce repetitive facades. MVRDV was invited to contribute a design approach that would introduce variation and identity within the constraints of the modular system.

The resulting facade builds on the logic of PPVC itself. Each prefabricated module forms a “pixel” within a larger pattern. Some units are recessed while others extend outwards within metal frames, creating balconies of varying depth and adding relief to the facade. A colour palette of gold and deep brown further emphasises the pixelated composition. The pattern draws inspiration from the organic forms of climbing plants, producing an abstract visual quality across the towers.

Green communal spaces

The facade design also calls attention to the communal areas of both towers, which incorporate greenery characteristic of Singapore’s residential developments. On the 24th floor, a sky garden rises approximately four storeys in height. At the top of the towers is Irwell Sky, a smaller space for social gatherings. In these areas the rigid grid of single-unit pixels loosens, with large double- and triple-size frames opening views to trees and planting.

Prefabrication and passive design in a tropical context

The project’s environmental strategy combines prefabricated construction with passive climatic design suited to Singapore’s tropical context. PPVC shifted much of the building process to factory-controlled production, improving material efficiency while limiting energy-intensive on-site activities and reducing construction waste.

Passive measures such as orienting the towers to minimise west-facing units, integrating deep balconies and horizontal shading ledges, and enabling cross-ventilation help limit solar heat gain and reduce cooling demand. A siphonic roof system supports rainwater harvesting, while durable material selections suited to the humid climate — including low-VOC installation materials such as Kerabond T adhesive and Keracolor FF grout — contribute to indoor environmental performance. The development achieved BCA Green Mark Gold Plus certification.

Longevity and urban contribution

PPVC is also associated with Singapore’s broader sustainability ambitions, including the country’s Green Plan 2030. However, the long-term environmental value of such construction depends on a building’s ability to remain relevant within its neighbourhood. MVRDV’s pragmatic facade design aims to support this longevity by introducing visual diversity and a sense of identity within a modular structure.

MVRDV founding partner Nathalie de Vries reflects on the context of the project:

“Over the decades, Singapore has shown itself to be a city of incredible innovation in architecture and urbanism. The city is once again showing leadership in modular construction and is seeing the benefits of PPVC in reducing waste, carbon emissions, and disruption to city life. With Irwell Hill Residences, alongside ADDP Architects, we took aim at the next step in that story of innovation: a PPVC project that prioritises variety and liveability.”