The city of Seattle’s new Fire Station No. 37 provides improved firefighter response and safety while exuding civic amenity in the midst of a neighborhood commercial district.

The LEED gold fire station establishes a strong presence, creating a “jewel box” bay for the apparatus. The use of ground-face concrete masonry units reinforced the sense of solidity, and the creamy color was selected for its warmth and reflectivity.

Rendered in crisp planes, the masonry walls complement the detailed structural steel, glass and mineral panel components.

Sourcing the masonry units locally was an important component of the sustainability strategy.