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Build on Legacy: The Virgon Story

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14 July 2025

We caught up with Christian Virgona, Project Manager at boutique construction company Virgon, to explore the evolving landscape of luxury residential design in Melbourne. Christian shares his insights into what’s shaping the next generation of high-end homes and the philosophies that continue to guide Virgon’s design-driven approach.

What key design elements or materials are shaping the next generation of luxury homes in Melbourne?

Virgon is seeing a renewed appreciation for natural materiality across both interior and exterior design palettes. Building façades are increasingly grounded in locally sourced, hand-crafted masonry, where the imperfections in brickwork are embraced. Narrow-profile bricks are often used, with ruled mortar beds that highlight the individuality of each brick. Concrete stucco and polished render finishes are also growing in popularity. When paired with ground-level masonry, they create a seamless confluence of major façade elements. Within the home, warm tonal palettes are being embraced through the use of timber-look laminates in joinery, sourced from suppliers such as Polytec and Nikpol. These timber accents introduce a sense of texture and warmth, often paired with layered limewash paint finishes that offer a refined backdrop. The focus on natural materiality provides the perfect canvas for stonework to flourish in kitchen and living spaces, as well as master suites.

Are you seeing shifts in the way people want to live, and how is that influencing your designs?

Virgon specialises in a market that services residents in prestigious neighbourhoods experiencing a shift from large family properties to boutique townhouse or apartment developments.

The floor plates of these developments must consider the end occupier’s milieu. Buyers seek generous living spaces that seamlessly extend into carefully curated gardens, alongside open-plan kitchens that flow into well-appointed butler’s pantries.

Purchasers are more discerning than ever — a reality that quality developers and designers are cognisant of. The most popular developments prioritise liveability over density, reflecting a clear shift towards more intimate, boutique offerings that balance refined design with a sense of spaciousness and comfort.

What should clients prioritise early in the custom build process to ensure a successful outcome?

Assembling a team of experienced professionals is paramount to the success of any project. Cultivating a collaborative environment where architects, builders, landscape architects, and engineers coalesce will almost always result in a home that is meticulously considered in every design aspect.

Early engagement of the builder in the design process is essential; Virgon frequently collaborate throughout the entire design process, offering expertise in buildability and value engineering at every stage, from structural planning through to the selection of final finishes and furnishings.

Which core philosophies have remained constant for you, despite changing trends?

Virgon has consistently prioritised a design-minded, quality-driven approach to construction. Our expertise lies in understanding when, where, and how to realise aesthetic intent, striking a careful balance between architectural vision and the practical insight of a builder that brings thirty years of experience to each of our projects.

Delivering each project to the high standards that define our reputation is a collaborative effort. It is made possible by a trusted network of contractors and suppliers who share our commitment to quality craftsmanship. We place great value on working with a consistent group of proven professionals — our curated network of skilled tradespeople — who help ensure the successful delivery of every build.

What excites you most about the future of residential design and construction in Victoria?

I am particularly motivated by the opportunity to continually elevate the quality benchmark within the construction industry.

I take pride in being part of a network of design and construction professionals who share a strong commitment to delivering exceptional workmanship at every stage of the process. Collaborating with like-minded individuals whose work I deeply respect brings me great professional fulfilment. I look forward to continuing to contribute to high-quality construction projects for decades to come.

Learn More - https://www.virgon.com.au/