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"This LEED Certified Fire Station is located on Siesta Key, yards from the beach. Sarasota County is committed to sustainability through a series of county-wide resolutions. Due to its coastal location, the designers wanted the building to evoke the spirit of a shingle-clad beachfront cottage – but in a modern fashion and with more durable materials. The Ground Level houses the Fire Apparatus and support spaces: Apparatus Bays, Decontamination, Public restroom, Bunker Gear Storage, and Hose Storage. The Second Level houses the Living Quarters for the Fire Station: Bunks, Kitchen, Dining, Dayroom, Fitness, Report Writing, and a Porch overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.
The designers worked with coastal engineers to evaluate the potential for storm-related erosion by performing a Scour/Erosion Analysis. The analysis assessed the wave height during a 100-year storm using the CMS-Wave numerical model and XBeach (to assess morphology change during rising and falling storm surges). The analysis allowed the Fire Station to utilize deepened stem wall footings in lieu of pile foundations, a significant saving.
The sensitive nature of the beachfront environment requires the building to “step lightly” on the land. This goal was accomplished by separating the living quarters and placing them above the apparatus bay, creating a 2nd story. The traditional fire pole quickly transports the firefighter from the living quarters to the apparatus bay. Interiors are minimal, finishes were selected for durability and low maintenance, and floors are polished concrete throughout. Wood finishes are introduced in select areas to warm the interior spaces. Low–emitting and recycled materials were selected as a commitment to providing a sustainable facility. Landscaping is comprised of drought-tolerant grasses.
Sustainability emerges from a holistic perspective to design. In addition to high-performance building science, the project focuses on landscape design, biology, renewable energy sources, the conservation of natural systems, and protected species habitats."
Return to: People's Choice Florida Building Survey
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