Custom Concrete Creates Eye-Catching Condos in Miami

May 20, 2016

CEMEX developed a specialty ready-mix concrete mix for the twin, twisting towers of the Grove at Grand Bay.

The city of Miami is known for its eye-catching architecture, but it’s not all Art Deco or Mediterranean Revival. Some of the city’s newest architectural gems are its ultra-modern, high-rise residential towers, and CEMEX is helping to bring those projects to life.

The Grove at Grand Bay’s condos sparked a transformation of the eclectic Coconut Grove neighborhood. These twin, twisting towers were designed by internationally renowned architects Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and built by Facchina. Rising 20 stories above Bayfront Avenue, they offer breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay in stunning CEMEX concrete.

A unique structure, the Grove at Grand Bay called for an equally unique ready-mix concrete—a custom blend made specifically for this project by CEMEX.

“The striking design and the use of exposed concrete throughout called for a very high modulus of elasticity. CEMEX was able to meet that need by delivering special aggregates from multiple locations outside of the Miami area to create a ready-mix concrete that met the client’s requirements,” said Bob Cardonne, CEMEX Vice President & General Manager for the Miami area in the USA.

With individual floor plans on every level and exposed concrete columns throughout all condo units, the entire structure required special ready-mix concrete—something Facchina knew CEMEX could provide.

“It’s always been a very good experience working with CEMEX. What differentiates them from their competition is the service they provide. As a construction company, we’re only as good as our suppliers and trade contractors, and CEMEX is one of the ones that make us look good,” said Jesus Vasquez, Facchina’s Chief Operating Officer.

This important project required more than 7,200 truckloads of custom ready-mix concrete delivered over a two-year period. It would not have been possible without the collaboration of hundreds of CEMEX employees from the Miami Ready-Mix Group.

“We are able to give our clients options that differentiate us from our competitors. CEMEX not only can supply high-quality products in a timely manner, but also assists in executing these projects in accordance with the highest level of efficiency and safety standards. Thanks to that expertise, we’re able to supply formidable, innovative, and industry-leading projects like the Grove at Grand Bay, which will form part of the Miami skyline for years to come. That’s something to be proud of,” said Gonzalo Galindo, CEMEX Regional President for the Florida region in the USA.

CEMEX is a global building materials company that provides high quality products and reliable service to customers and communities in more than 50 countries. Celebrating its 110th anniversary, CEMEX has a rich history of improving the well-being of those it serves through innovative building solutions, efficiency advancements, and efforts to promote a sustainable future.