This facility received a Career 2 Notable award at the 2023 Firehouse Station Design Awards. The full list of winners can be found here.
Due to recent population growth and increased development, the South Metro Fire District (SMFD) required a new, state-of-the-art fire station that would meet both the current and future needs of the department. The new station is strategically located in the Lake Winnebago residential neighborhood and will provide fire, EMS and water rescue services to the residents of the community.
Working with the SMFD, the design team carefully considered various design options. Ultimately, it was decided that the new facility would embody the residential character of the area while standing out as a beacon within the community. Spanning 10,648 square feet, the station features three bays equipped with bi-fold doors, a spacious training facility, individual bunks, and a generously sized kitchen that opens to a large dining table and a recreation room where firefighters can relax. In addition, the station features a covered patio and an ICC 500 shelter, ensuring the highest levels of safety and comfort.
The facility incorporates sustainable elements including energy recovery units for mechanical systems, LED lighting, and a heating panel for the equipment hall and 10 feet beyond. This innovative addition provides ample heat during the colder months and even melts snow for large fire equipment, resulting in savings in electricity and labor costs.
The fire station was designed with a focus on separating living areas from healthy work spaces to ensure that contaminants do not enter the living areas. Transition zones were created at the three entrances, equipped with dirt trapping mats, negative pressure and washable surfaces. In addition, the equipment removal room in the transition zone was designed to remove all carcinogens from the equipment and to quickly dry the equipment for the next use.
The active areas of the firehouse are strategically located at the front of the facility, with sleeping quarters and gender-neutral showers conveniently located further back.
Architect/Company name: Hoefer-Welker
