The Challenge

For the high-profile Walgreens location near Kissimmee's commercial hubs, architect David Rhodes, AIA, sought to break away from traditional "big-box" retail architecture. The goal was to design a highly creative, visually dynamic exterior envelope that offered depth and texture without compromising on structural durability or inflating installation costs.

The Solution

The project team specified ABRI™ Masonry Veneers in Gray.

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Unlike standard flat masonry block, ABRI is engineered as a flexible "kit of parts" featuring angular and curved face profiles (Shingle, Wedge, Convex, Concave, and Serpentine). For this project, the sophisticated Gray palette was arranged to catch the vibrant Florida sun, casting shifting, fluid shadow patterns across the building throughout the day.

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While the face profiles offer dramatic dimensional depth, the units feature a completely flat, flush backside. This allowed the team at Concrete & Masonry Solutions to align the blocks quickly and effortlessly, achieving a high-end, custom look using standard anchored veneer installation techniques.

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Built for Performance: Beyond its striking aesthetic, the ABRI system delivers advanced water management and structural control, combining integral water repellents with precise joint reinforcement to combat Florida's intense seasonal weather.

The Result

Through the collaboration of Keator Construction and Concrete & Masonry Solutions, the Kissimmee Walgreens stands as a benchmark for modern commercial design. By utilizing CPG's ABRI line, the project successfully blended structural reliability with high-concept architecture, proving that essential retail spaces can be both highly functional and visually inspiring.

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Explore how the ABRI™ Anchored Veneer System can elevate your next design at concreteproductsgroup.com/products/abri.