In Quarters: Florence, KY, Fire Station 34

This facility received the Career 1 Notable award in the 2025 Firehouse Station Design Awards. Find the full list of winners here. 

The city of Florence’s population growth has driven a demand for additional fire personnel and a new headquarters station. The Florence Fire Department approached this new station with a commitment to the health, readiness and professional development of its firefighters. As such, the station incorporates decontamination spaces, areas for advanced training, and support spaces for both physical and mental well-being. Station 34 was developed within a challenging site, but the geographic location was ideal for strengthening the presence of public safety services. The Station Design Awards judges recognized the challenge and awarded points to the design team for its efforts.

With a keen focus on minimizing response times, the department now responds more quickly and effectively in one of its busiest service areas. 

The site layout establishes clear and distinct areas for emergency vehicles versus public access, which is remote from the return lane and rear apron for emergency vehicles. The public entrance is defined clearly through hardscaping, landscaping, signage and material finishes. Private staff entrances are located in the rear of the station. The Station Design Awards judges praised the attention to these details.

Station 34 was planned meticulously with clearly delineated Hot, Warm and Cold Zones. This setup and flow reduces cross-contamination through dedicated spaces that are designed particularly for gear cleaning and personnel decontamination in terms of physical and mechanical separation.

With direct access from the administrative and operational wings, the fitness center design ensures that firefighters can transition easily between physical training and active duty. Its high ceilings provide for optimal airflow and its direct connection to the outdoors through a pair of doors and large windows allows natural light to flood the space.

The dayroom/kitchen area includes ample seating for all on-shift personnel, to foster camaraderie and rest between calls. A direct connection to a patio encourages firefighters to spend time outdoors for relaxation or informal team gatherings.

The training room’s audio-video systems allow for both in-person and virtual instruction. Modular furniture and flexible layouts ensure that the room can accommodate a variety of scenarios and class sizes.

The apparatus bay’s adjoining training tower is designed for multistory drills, complete with a mezzanine to perform ladder operations at simulated door and window openings and integrated anchor points for rope training.

Nearby, a confined space simulation offers an environment for horizontal and vertical rescue drills.

Understanding the importance of rest, each firefighter is provided with a soundproof bunkroom. Controlled lighting prevents disruption. The flexibility of gender-neutral sleeping quarters allows the facility to adapt to changing staffing requirements.

Architect: KZF Design