FAENA HOUSE

Background

Rising magnificently eighteen stories above the immaculate beaches of Collins Avenue and 32nd Street, Faena House is one of Miami Beach’s most sought-after addresses.

This architectural marvel, built by Coastal for Faena Group, consists of 44 luxurious condominiums with large wraparound outdoor terraces, or “aleros,” that provide inhabitants unparalleled panoramic views of the ocean. Elevated above tranquil surroundings of native foliage, grasslands, and serene lily ponds, the lower levels offer a serene retreat beneath the structure, providing a cooling effect to the entrance areas. Guests arriving are greeted at an exclusive drop-off point and enter a luminous atrium seemingly suspended above the water. Pathways winding through the lush landscape guide visitors to four distinct glass-enclosed elevator pavilions, seamlessly blending nature with modern design.

Each apartment on the highest levels has its own entryway, which directs guests to an elegant foyer with high ceilings and an abundance of natural light pouring through the fully glassed living areas. The apartments have been carefully designed to maximize the expansive views of the ocean. They feature large living areas with high ceilings that give off an air of grandeur and openness.

Building Blocks supplied the panelized glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) balcony system for this prestigious eighteen-story condominium. The design necessitated a customized GFRC mix tailored to meet Foster + Partner’s exacting aesthetic standards. The mix incorporated ultra-white cement infused with a touch of quartz to impart a subtle sparkle – a blend perfectly suited for Miami’s ambiance.

The precaster’s task was to engineer a GFRC balcony system capable of capturing elegant double curvatures while remaining lightweight to minimize deflection of the 17-foot cantilevered post-tensioned slab. However, they also had to be robust enough to withstand hurricane conditions and support the glass railing. Through a collaborative design-assist process with the architects, Building Blocks achieved a solution that seamlessly merged beauty with constructability.