In Quarters: Sunnyvale, TX, Fire Station No. 1

This facility received the Career 2 Notable award in the 2025 Firehouse Station Design Awards. Find the full list of winners here. 

The architect worked closely with the town and fire department to evaluate five potential sites for the facility. It was determined that the current location best met the community’s response time requirements and the town’s project budget.

The station includes three drive-through apparatus bays, a fire chief office, two assistant chief offices, eight individiual dormitory rooms, one officer suite, and a multipurpose training room that also functions as an Emergency Operations Center (EOC).

The station was constructed on town-owned land that’s located at the edge of an equestrian lease site. At the town’s request, the station was designed to reflect the rural character of the area and to complement the nearby stables.

The design team incorporated Sunnyvale’s design standards through the use of traditional barn elements with wood siding, cupolas, metal rail fencing and warm wood accents. The Station Design Awards judges found this facet of the facility notable.

The station’s design includes direct access from the living quarters to the apparatus bay, which allows for quick and efficient emergency response. To support firefighter health, safety and performance, the facility incorporates several key features: private dorm rooms to support restful sleep, an on-site fitness area to promote physical health, and an open-concept kitchen/dining/dayroom area to facilitate a team environment. A screened patio is equipped with a grill, table and chairs. The workout room was designed to serve as an ICC 500-compliant storm shelter. This and the multipurpose training room/EOC is appreciated by the Station Design Awards judges any time that they encounter them.

The station is equipped with mechanical exhaust systems, air quality sensors and air locks to help to prevent carcinogenic air from migrating out of the apparatus bay.

All rooms that are adjacent to the apparatus bay, such as the gear, decon and quartermaster areas, were designed with positive air pressure.

Architect: Komatsu Architecture