Big Top Brewing Company | Sarasota, FL 14,000 sq ft

Commercial Brewery

Industry: Big Top Brewing Company
Size: 100x140x29 (14,000 sq ft)
Location: Sarasota, FL
Building System: I Beam

Big Top Brewing set out to build their new brewery and restaurant in Sarasota, Florida. They had a bold vision: a versatile and dynamic space that blended industrial functionality with craft-forward charm.

Big Top Brewing partnered with Coastal Steel Structures at a pivotal moment to bring the concept to life. The result was a transformative collaboration that honored the original design intent while showcasing Coastal’s ability to deliver adaptive, client-focused solutions that stand out in form and function.

Designed to be far more than a typical metal building. It needed to function as a production hub, a restaurant, a retail store, and an entertainment venue, all seamlessly integrated under one roof.

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Our Approach and Solutions

Strategic Value Engineering That Preserved Design and Reduced Cost

When Big Top Brewing’s original plans exceeded budget, Coastal Steel Structures proposed a complete redesign using a Pre-Engineered Metal Building system. The team worked carefully to preserve the building’s original footprint and appearance while analyzing architectural requirements, structural loads, and zoning regulations in detail. Through close collaboration with the architect and general contractor, Coastal delivered a PEMB solution that met all design goals at a significantly lower cost, without compromising the project’s visual integrity or functionality.

Client and Team Education That Built Confidence in PEMB Systems

Many members of the project team had limited experience with metal building systems, creating uncertainty about whether PEMB could achieve the desired look and performance. Coastal Steel Structures stepped in as both a guide and consultant, demonstrating how modern steel buildings can replicate traditional construction using masonry cladding and high-end interior finishes. Through consistent communication and design reviews, Coastal ensured that the owner and all stakeholders felt confident in the PEMB’s ability to deliver both form and function.

Flexible Financial Support That Kept the Project on Track

When the client’s construction lender became insolvent mid-project, Coastal responded with flexibility and partnership. The company provided custom payment terms and ongoing logistical support, allowing work to continue while the client secured new financing. Coastal remained hands-on throughout fabrication and erection, ensuring progress never stopped despite the financial setback. This proactive approach prevented costly delays and ensured the project continued to move toward completion.

PEMB Engineered to Match Existing Permits and Aesthetic Goals

Because the building had already been permitted, Coastal Steel Structures had to work within strict design limits. The PEMB was precisely tailored to match the approved plans in footprint, height, and layout while accommodating traditional materials like brick and masonry. Additional horizontal framing supports were incorporated to ensure seamless integration of these finishes. The result was a steel building that looked identical to its conventional counterpart—combining traditional architecture with modern construction efficiency.

Big Top Brewing’s Case Study