In Quarters: City of Dallas Fire Station No. 46

This facility received the Career 2 Bronze Award in the 2022 Firehouse Station Design Awards. Find the full list of winners here. 

City of Dallas Fire Station No. 46 is a new one-story building in Oak Cliff, which serves as the city’s first cancer-fighting station. Replacing an outdated facility that was built in the 1960s, the modern station includes three full apparatus bays, an ICC-500 tornado shelter and a state-of-the-art transition zone. The facility also houses a wildland team and high-technology surveillance equipment for emergencies and wildfire prevention.

The station’s design is centered on decontamination and firefighter health. To reduce firefighters’ exposure to carcinogens that they might track in from the field, the negative-pressure transition zone is positioned in between the apparatus bays and the living quarters.

Fire Station No. 46 reflects the city of Dallas’ sustainability goals and is designed for LEED certification. It follows eco-friendly practices, such as high energy and water efficiency, reduction of light pollution, and reduction of the heat island via reflective roofing and paving. Native water-efficient landscaping and innovative irrigation are included as a means of limiting the use of potable water for the site.

Tubular daylighting and clerestory windows are placed strategically throughout the facility in an effort to promote tenant wellness. Sound-absorbing panels mitigate acoustical reverberation that’s caused by the high-volume exposed ceilings. Practical interior finishes and red accents offer a minimalistic yet welcoming atmosphere for members and visitors alike.

The exercise room provides outdoor access to the patio and canopy, which leads back to the central kitchen and watch room. This layout is designed for 15 firefighters per 24-hour shift and promotes team building while allowing direct access to the apparatus bay from any area.

Located on a major high-traffic road, the station helps to build community pride and invests in the health and safety of the surrounding neighborhood. The front entrance is ornamented with local art that was commissioned by the city of Dallas.    

Architect/Firm Name: GSR Andrade Architects