Project Info:

Historic precedent provided the impetus in creating the overall architectural character of Station 20 – a contemporary interpretation of historic regional firehouses. The exterior materials of red brick and grey, and flat profile concrete roof tile are reminiscent of the brick and slate roof design found in fire stations of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Interior finishes for Station 20 also draw from historic inspiration through the use of brass fixtures, masonry walls, tile patterns and color selection, accented with vintage photographs from the City of Colorado Springs Fire Department archives. Station 20's design acknowledgement of the past strikes a particular resonance with its occupants who collectively share a reverence for the heritage of their vocation.

The apparatus bays were viewed as the heart of the station, emphasized by a higher level of brick detailing expressed with brick arches above the overhead doors and articulated pilasters. Exposed steel roof trusses are employed within the bays in deference to the utilitarian nature of the space. A high level of daylighting was achieved through incorporation of a series of translucent ridge skylights, minimizing dependence on electrical lighting during sunny Colorado days. Finishes respond to goals for durability and quality.

As the fourth consecutive fire station designed by HB&A for the City of Colorado Springs, Station 20 provided further refinement to the prototypical floorplan and its functional modules. The public entry to the building is signified by the tall lobby tower which provides a strong visual focal point. The overall mass of the facility is broken into smaller functional groupings that are each given distinct nested roof heights at gable ends. The public has direct access to the entry tower and community room, but not the remainder of the station to protect the privacy of the firefighters.