In Quarters: Marion, IA, Fire Station No. 1
This facility received the Career 1 Notable award in the 2024 Firehouse Station Design Awards. Find the full list of winners here.
This two-level, 21,214-sq.-ft. fire station that’s located in a rapidly growing community reduces response time, establishes a strong and transparent civic presence, and utilizes biophilic design principles as a means of supporting firefighters’ physical and mental wellness.
The plan and massing is anchored by a two-story apparatus bay that has full-height glass doors to maximize daylight and community connection. Shou sugi ban wood, which is charred using controlled fire, wraps the living and office spaces to add depth, texture and contrast with the smooth plane of the glass. Interior spaces are complemented by two ipe wood terraces that are sheltered by a roof and wall trellis. A green roof surrounds living and sleeping rooms.
The lobby of the facility is stretched to become the primary first-level circulation, mediating between a tree grove and a history wall. This welcoming, light-filled space allows direct views into the apparatus bay and displays the department’s history, pride and tradition.
Strategic sequencing of spaces, including a decontamination area that’s between the bays and the office and living areas, mitigates exposure to fire and ash carcinogens to protect firefighters’ health and wellness. On the opposite side of the bays, the hose-drying tower also serves as a training area to simulate rescues. A retention pond is used to train for ice rescues.
The living areas, which are wrapped in full-height glazing with exposed wood ceilings, include a full kitchen, a large, family-style table, and a TV and gaming area to ensure that firefighters have a variety of space types to relax and recharge. Circadian rhythm-based lighting is used throughout to ensure that firefighters’ wake-sleep cycle is synchronized with natural light, while escalating alarms reduce physiological and psychological stress upon waking.
The implementation of biophilic principles has a profound effect on firefighters’ well-being, including stress reduction and increased awareness and cognitive ability.
Architect: OPN Architects
