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

After decades of growth and shifting service demands, the original Fire Station No. 153 no longer could support the operational needs of the Glendale Fire Department. The city of Glendale set its sights beyond a simple replacement, seeking a modern, high-performing station that’s designed to enhance emergency response, protect firefighter health and serve the future. The project team delivered a purpose-built, expanded facility.

With no backup station in the area and a high call volume, the team prioritized maintaining a full emergency response throughout construction. A phased plan allowed crews to remain on site, supported by temporary modular housing and apparatus accommodations that kept operations uninterrupted and safe.

The completed station features three drive-through apparatus bays, nine private dormitories, captain’s offices, a spacious dayroom, a full kitchen and dining space, a crew workroom, a fitness room that has natural light and a dedicated “recharge” room (a quiet, low-stimulation space that’s designed to help firefighters to reset after high-intensity calls).

Two decontamination rooms and a designated clean/dirty zone reduce cross-contamination within the facility. Every space that’s in the station was designed to streamline workflow and elevate health and wellness. Circulation paths provide direct and efficient movement from dorms and living spaces to the apparatus bays. Functional adjacencies eliminate wasted motion. Zoned  HVAC systems ensure clean air and temperature control across different use areas. High-durability, acoustically appropriate materials support both resilience and rest.

Health and wellness were considered at every turn. The clean/dirty transition, the fully equipped fitness room and improved rest areas were driven by input from firefighters. Shared spaces, such as the kitchen and dayroom, create opportunities for camaraderie and informal decompression.

The design process was deeply collaborative. Stakeholders across departments were engaged at every phase. The design team toured regional stations to study best practices, gathering input on topics ranging from decon workflows to gear storage and the evolving needs of modern firefighter crews.

The Station Design Awards judges praised the design team’s successful use of color and textures both inside and out. Station No. 153 not only meets the performance demands of today but also positions the department for success well into the future.

This project stands as a testament to what’s possible through thoughtful design, cross-disciplinary collaboration and deep respect for the professionals for whom the station was built.

Architect: Cole Architects