Our History
Building Blocks was founded in Chicago, Illinois in 1983. Our first major project was restoring the behemoth Merchandise Mart's terra cotta facade during the mid-1980s. From there, we earned a respected reputation in the facade restoration industry over subsequent decades.
When facade restoration began to utilize alternate materials to replace terra cotta, glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) quickly became a frontrunner. GFRC proved able to reproduce the fine detail and complex shapes of terra cotta in virtually indistinguishable colors and finishes. The shorter production timeline, lighter weight, faster erection, and more economical price of GFRC earned it favor with our clients.
Our Evolution
Our Evolution
As Building Blocks gained expertise with GFRC, we began to work with it in new construction projects. Our team quickly fell in love with the design flexibility, wide variety of finishes, and seemingly limitless applications of the material. This side of our business eclipsed the restoration division and over time the need for tighter control of our GFRC supply emerged. In response, we opened the Building Blocks GFRC manufacturing facility in Florida to bring our projects industry-best material.
For Building Blocks to provide greater value to our customers we began incorporating glass into our designs to deliver a complete enclosure. We work with several window manufacturers from Italy and USA based on the project requirements and budget to source the best quality for our facades. Our integrated delivery methodology simplifies the traditional model by providing a single source for the complete enclosure.
Today
Today, we proudly design, manufacture, and construct UHPC and GFRC wall systems made in the USA. Our innovative wall systems allow for curvilinear architecture, provide higher performance prefabricated walls, deliver faster rates of enclosure, and pushes the boundaries of building envelope designs.
Our Team
Our team combines architectural vision with material science expertise and manufacturing precision. This integrated approach allows us to solve complex design challenges and deliver solutions that exceed expectations.
Our Philosophy
Material Innovation
We continually push the boundaries of what's possible with cementitious materials, developing new formulations, techniques, and applications.
Design Excellence
We believe in clean, purposeful design that serves both aesthetic and functional needs without unnecessary complexity.
Technical Precision
Our work demands exacting standards at every stage—from initial concept through final installation. We embrace this precision as core to our identity.
Integrated Delivery
We simplify the traditional model by providing a single source for complete enclosure systems, from design to manufacturing to installation.
Ready to Build Smarter?
Connect with our team to explore how UHPC and GFRC can elevate your next project.