In Quarters: Metro West Fire Protection District 3 & Administrative Office, Wildwood, MO

This facility received the Renovations Notable award in the 2025 Firehouse Station Design Awards. Find the full list of winners here. 

The oldest of Metro West Fire Protection District’s five fire stations, Station 3 was suffering from a lack of functional space, outmoded accommodations and outdated systems. The design team embarked on a space-planning study that looked at the department’s current and future needs, including options for renovation, addition or full replacement. Determining that the existing facility was in good condition, an interior renovation of the space proved to be the most cost-effective option while still meeting the desired program goals.

Working closely with the fire crew, the design team fully reimagined the building’s layout to increase efficiency, comfort and wellness. The station’s existing bunkroom, which was an outdated model that consisted of one large space with partitions, was replaced with six separate rooms that have three beds in each room. (Only one firefighter sleeps in each room at a time.)

Locker rooms were replaced with individual Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant bathrooms for the privacy of all staff. The kitchen/dining area was relocated and replaced with a modern design that has multiple seating options and access to a patio. Other upgrades included a new HVAC system, electrical systems, sprinklers, water lines and motion-sensor LED lighting.

A new wellness room provides a quiet, calming space. Alarms were upgraded to a progressive alarm (with gradual increase in volume) from a siren, which is shown to be better for heart health and circadian rhythm. New dispatch technology allows only certain crews to be woke, rather than signaling the entire building when, for example, only one ambulance is needed.

A dedicated decontamination room that’s off of the apparatus bay and separated from living quarters allows crew to store and clean gear as well as shower after fire events.

A cramped exercise room was expanded to almost double the size, with technology and HVAC upgrades, suspended LED lighting and acoustical ceiling panels. Windows were added in several locations to provide additional natural light into interior spaces.

Station 3 also houses the district’s administrative offices, fire prevention bureau, data center and executive boardroom on the upper floor. Accessed via separate entry, this floor also received a full renovation and reconfiguration to make best use of the space. Designers helped administrators redefine roles to determine proper floor placement. The fire bureau, which formerly was at the back of the building, was moved next to the entry for easier access for its high volume of visitors. Also included on this floor are offices, a kitchen (“A fantastic transformation,” one Station Design Awards judge said), a workroom, a lobby with reception, a conference room, a boardroom and the wellness room.

The station’s history and mission are celebrated throughout with multiple wall murals, quotes, artifacts and strong branding using the department’s red, yellow and blue colors and logo. The public entry greets visitors with an “M” and “W” light fixture.

The $227-per-sq.-ft. cost? “Amazing in these times,” a Station Design Awards judged remarked.

Architect: FGM Architects