This facility received the Volunteer/Combination Notable Award in the 2021 Firehouse Station Design Awards. Find the full list of winners here.
In 2018, Grant Hays Associates, Sebago Technics and Allied Engineering conducted a comprehensive analysis of the existing 40-plus-year-old Cash Corner Fire Station in South Portland, ME, which found a fire and rescue station that was fraught with age and mold throughout and lacked a workable footprint to meet the needs of a growing community. One of several unique features of this location would be the challenge of maintaining separation between first responder functions and the general public interface.
The new station was designed to meet both the current and future needs of the community via the inclusion of the nearby volunteer engine company, a multipurpose training/conference room, ample sleeping and living quarters, a fitness room, offices and state-of-the-art apparatus facilities (including one stairwell that will double as a training exercise space for complex rescues). A large decontamination room is utilized by the entire South Portland community of fire and rescue stations.
Other goals for the station focused on the human factors and creating living spaces that felt more residential than institutional. Care and attention were used to create a kitchen and dayroom that are both efficient as well as inviting spaces to gather and foster community. Bunk rooms utilize soothing colors, warm wall coverings for aesthetics and durability and luxury vinyl tile flooring that resembles carpet. Colors that were used throughout were each considered for their psychological placement and harmony. Lighting and light tubes afford another layer of combined efficiency and comfort.
The design team successfully addressed municipal and departmental leadership’s desire for a building that was contemporary in design while incorporating details that are reminiscent of a traditional New England firehouse.
Architect/Firm Name: Grant Hays Associates
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