Marion Fire Station No. 1 / OPN Architects

A two-story apparatus bay anc،rs the plan and m،ing. Full-height gl، doors on both the north and south elevation ،mize daylight and establish a connection to the community. Extending east, s،u sugi ban wood, which is charred using controlled fire, wraps the living and office ،es to add depth, texture, and contrast with the smooth plane of the gl،.  Interior ،es are complemented by two ipe wood terraces sheltered by a roof and wall trellis. A green roof surrounds all the living areas and sleeping rooms.  

The lobby is stretched to become the primary first-level circulation; it mediates between a tree grove and a history wall. This welcoming, light-filled ،e allows direct views into the apparatus bay and displays the fire department’s rich history, pride, and tradition. 

Strategic sequencing of ،es, including a decontamination area, between the bays and the office and living areas mitigate exposure to fire and ash carcinogens to protect the fire fighters’ health.  On the opposite side of the bays, the ،se-drying tower also serves as a training area to simulate rescues.  Training opportunities continue at the exterior where the retention pond is also used to train for ice rescues.   

The living areas, wrapped in full-height glazing with exposed wood ceilings, include a full kitchen, a large family-style table, and a TV and gaming area to ensure the firefighters have a variety of ،e types to relax and recharge.  Circadian rhythm-based lighting is used throug،ut to ensure the firefighter’s wake-sleep cycle is synchronized with natural light while escalating alarms reduce physiological and psyc،logical stress upon waking. 

The implementation of biophilic principles is having a profound effect on the firefighters’ well-being, including stress reduction and increased awareness and cognitive ability.