South Miami K-8 School

When the Miami-Dade School Board needed a new school that would blend into the surrounding neighborhoods, they turned to Tilt-Up construction. The school board also recognized the benefits of Tilt-Up with regard to safety, durability and architectural appeal.

The surrounding upscale neighborhood contains homes with earth tone themes including coral elements. As such, coral was applied to the Tilt-Up panels after erection to create architectural dimension. A variety of formliners and reveals also were used to provide architectural relief. Different patterns were used to contrast with the coral stone cladding applied to the Tilt-Up panels. Further, oval columns and cast-in-place canopies at the Art and Music Building and the outside dining area near the three-story classroom building create a dramatic effect. The Art and Music Building also includes three curved panels at the stage area and the stair shafts are architecturally angled with full height stone applied to give them an abstract look. Smooth film faced plywood was used at the curved panels to form “ramps” that were critical in preventing major patching to the panels.

Tilt-Up also was selected to help alleviate mold and mildew problems experienced with other schools in the area. Further, the school district pursued green and sustainable design elements, such as the use of natural light and ventilation.

With a construction schedule of a mere 210 days, the staff, nearly 700 students and the surrounding community are excited about South Miami K-8. Further, with all the hurricanes that have posed threats to South Florida in recent years, this unique 62,221-square-foot school will also be designated as a hurricane shelter to provide a secure place for area residents.