Miami’s iconic Freedom Tower, initially completed in 1925, stands as a symbol of resilience and cultural identity. Now home to the Museum of Art and Design (MOAD), the Cuban Legacy Gallery, and MDC Special Collections, the 14-story landmark undergoes a $25 million restoration to preserve its historical and structural integrity.

Originally used by the federal government in the 1960s–70s to process Cuban immigrants, the Freedom Tower is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This top-to-bottom restoration aligns with strict federal preservation standards. It includes the repair of structural damage, restoration of the cupola and ballroom, and replacement of over 350 windows with historically accurate, impact-resistant replicas.

Due to the building’s fragile condition, traditional anchoring methods for scaffolding could not be used, making the design of temporary structural systems critical to the project’s success.

Project Highlights:

KLINE was responsible for designing temporary structural systems that could safely support the complex restoration efforts without compromising the historic building’s integrity. Including:

• Temporary Shoring Design for Historic preservation & New construction

• Engineered temporary shoring & reshoring systems to safely support the swing stage frames and counterweights at low roof level.

• Designed reshoring systems to support vertical loads from scaffolding at multiple tower levels (14, 16, 17, and 19).

• Developed formwork and reshoring designs for new concrete slabs and beams at Level 1, ensuring safe load transfer into the existing historic structure.

• Demolition of existing concrete & steel structural elements 

• Designed safe demolition procedures for the interior elevated slabs, beams, elevator shaft, and stairs.

• Conducted on-site inspections and issued approval letters.

KLINE conducted full inspections of each reshoring installation and provided final sign-off letters to ensure safe execution in the field.

Through every phase, KLINE brought a high level of technical precision and structural foresight to the project. Our deep experience in complex shoring and reshoring design enabled us to create solutions that balanced modern engineering needs with preservation sensitivities, ensuring that restoration work could move forward safely and without disruption.

Photography and Renderings: ©MOAD @KLINE