At the Florida Holocaust Museum, every architectural detail is designed to preserve memory and inspire reflection. GBA Architectural Products + Services developed the design and installation methodology for the custom structural glass floor system, working closely with Architectural Expressions to bring the vision to life.
The glass floor installation surrounds Thor—a 10-ton Danish fishing boat that played a vital role in the 1943 rescue of more than 7,000 people during the Holocaust. Paired with immersive lighting and sound, the transparent floor creates the illusion of Thor suspended in water. This design invites visitors to connect with the artifact on an emotional and spatial level.
GBA’s scope included the fabrication of all steel structural components, Low Iron Transparent glass floor panels with TCF, and a custom glass floor hatch door seamlessly mounted to the supporting steel frame. This installation marked a significant architectural milestone for GBA — the successful execution of our first integrated glass floor hatch system, engineered for both aesthetics and access.
A steel access ladder was incorporated beneath the glass floor, providing safe entry to the pit while maintaining clean, unobtrusive lines that complement the minimalist design. The result is a refined installation that balances innovation with reverence, allowing light and space to play a meaningful role in the museum’s experience.
Since its opening, the installation has transformed the exhibit, enhancing both visual and emotional engagement. Visitors are often struck with awe as they step onto the glass, pausing to take in the remarkable view beneath their feet. The system has also performed exceptionally well—proving durable, safe, and low-maintenance despite steady visitor traffic.
The single greatest advantage of this glass floor installation has been its ability to deepen the emotional and sensory connection between visitors and the story of Thor. The combination of light, sound, and transparency transforms the exhibit into a living environment that bridges history and innovation.
In collaboration with Behar Peteranecz Architecture, Scott Holmes, and Hennessey Construction Services Corp, GBA delivered a glass floor system that not only enhances the built environment but also represents a step forward in our architectural innovation.
"We could not be happier with your product and services. We relied on you quite a bit to set the coordination of several items – ceiling heights, curb construction, detailing/engineering – and can’t imagine having another vendor without your expertise and patience. Jeff was especially great throughout the entire experience.
100% will recommend you all here for any other projects in our office." — Neal Harrod, Rockwell Group
"I saw the final glass block wall in person and it really is a work of art. We are so grateful for your team’s hard work on this." – Crister Cantrell, Gensler
"Work was done very professionally with outstanding quality. Your crews were very attentive to detail & made sure to protect surrounding work surfaces from damage. They communicated well with my field team to ensure we & the Owner were satisfied with the end product. Job well done." - Russell Stafford, RNGD A Palmisano Company
"We were lucky to have GBA on our project at Lutheran East High School. From the front office to the field supervision and crew were very knowledgeable with our project. Took extra care not to damage the building during demolition. The quality of materials and their labor force was top-notch." — Peter Powell, Carey Construction Group
"We are extremely pleased with the outcome of the glass block at Lutheran East High School and have received many compliments on the design. The glass block windows give the building a nice “pop” of color on the exterior each side of the gym and helped to maintain the identity of the school." - Rick Jozity, Meraki Architects, L.L.C
"As the Senior Project Manager for the general contracting company responsible for completing all aspects of the historical restoration, structural rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse modifications to the derelict Triboro tuberculosis hospital, one of the most difficult challenges was finding capable and qualified subcontractors for the key restoration trades that are both committed to quality construction and respectful of the historical restoration process. I am lucky enough to have worked with GBA on previous successful projects and was glad to bring them into this project. GBA provided the essential expertise and quality craftsmanship that this project needed and was a reliable partner helping us convert the Triboro Tuberculosis Hospital into the T Building Residence." – Senior Project Manager, Bill Harwood for the GC, Mega Contracting
"On behalf of me, my project manager and CGC; I would like to reach out to applaud the quality and workmanship of the crew sent out to do the glass block wall outside of the theater here in Hudson. Dan and Nate went above and beyond to keep their work area organized and clean, even protected our finish trim and VWC in the mixing area with plastic. If only more companies active on site would follow in your companies steps these buildings would be cut and dry and run very efficiently. Thank you! - Jake M. Behler, Cameron General Contractors
"Working with GBA was seamless and the process of the work stood out. We had a few safety issues with the field crew but were quickly corrected and had no further issues during the course of construction. We are thrilled to be able to offer this product to the owner as they look much better than what was existing while offering the exterior grade capability that Atlantic Station needed. " — Garrett Atkinson, New South Construction
Midwest (877) 280-7700
East Coast (212) 255-5787
West Coast (213) 634-7050
All contents © Medina Glass Block, Inc