The design for Viol International in São Paulo, designed in collaboration with KMD Architects, is a solution for a population-density issue similar to that of Beijing, China. The project consists of two towers of office space that sit on a two-story retail base. It was necessary to retrofit an existing tower on a daunting site bounded by a Brazilian freeway, amid a sea of buildings, and 20-story concrete towers. Two towers frame the most visible corner of the site to signal the gate to the interior complex. Two smaller towers, accessible at a pedestrian level, are located at the back of the site.

The urban plaza draws in passersby and despite its exposure to the highly trafficked thoroughfare is designed a place where one wants to linger. While this vision does not carry the fluid character so prominent in much of Form4 Architecture’s work, fluidity persists. The plaza and public spaces, including a café and theater, are intentionally open to welcome pedestrian activity and promote community. The result is a level of public engagement at the ground level that is equal to the energy of the city.