The non-profit organization Care Resource has been caring for medically underserved people for 40 years. In 2017, those responsible realized that their two-story headquarters in Midtown Miami could no longer cope with the ever-increasing number of patients. Two years later, under the direction of architecture firm David Scott Parker, ground was broken for a new seven-storey health center. The architects based their design on the Miami Modernist (MiMo) style, which originated in the 1950s and can still be seen today on Biscayne Boulevard in the heart of Miami.

With playful and innovative shapes, the new health center aimed to create a balance between contemporary design and a relaxing environment. “Visiting the doctor can often feel cold, impersonal and stressful. We have designed our health center to be welcoming for patients. The warm and relaxing atmosphere takes the stress away and lets our patients know they are in good hands,” explains Rick Siclari, CEO of Care Resource.

Powder-coated stainless steel façade

The architecture firm also uses a powder-coated mesh façade for its neo-MiMo style exterior. GKD came out on top in the selection process thanks to its speed and responsiveness. “The original plan was to use a competitor’s product,” says Shawn Crismond, GKD Territory Sales Manager. “However, we were able to respond quickly to questions and concerns from the design team and provide technical assistance in finalizing details for the project drawings. We then delivered custom samples with the correct powder coating type and color, which made the approval process easier for the customer.”

GKD manufactured special steel supports for the large mesh panels of the building envelope. Each panel has a special fastening system in which a round rod is woven into the metal mesh instead of weft wires. Eyebolts are attached to these round rods, which are fixed to the brackets at the top and bottom and secured with turnbuckles.

Safety even in gale-force winds

The pivoting intermediate brackets are arranged vertically and horizontally as required and are connected to the woven rods. In accordance with Miami-Dade County building regulations, the fabric system can withstand three-second wind gusts of around 280 kilometers per hour.

Finally, a separate aluminum louver system was installed outside the panels, which relies on steel supports that had to penetrate the fabric panels. GKD engineers ensured that the louver supports could be integrated into the metal mesh system.

A total of 1,711 square meters of GKD Helix 24 metal mesh was installed, giving the new health center stability, robustness and a stylish appearance.

Miami Modern

Miami Modern or Miami Modernist (MiMo) is an architectural style that characterized South Florida from the 1950s to the late 1960s. This style often features large windows and balconies as well as extravagant and unusual shapes, patterns and details. Pastel-colored facades are also typical of MiMo.