The Gantt District Fire Station powerfully represents the overarching sense of protection offered by those who selflessly safeguard their neighbors. Designers from Green Arch were faced with the challenge of successfully combining all of the Gantt Special Purpose District’s services and staff into one location as they were faced with the need to vacate outdated buildings that the team had outgrown. The new station successfully merges Fire Headquarters, district and Wastewater Collection offices and operations, allowing for economies of scale and the provision of seamless services to constituents. The complex was developed with a vision for the future and anticipated growth.
Concerns related to communal living, exposure to gasses, and an atmosphere conducive to both work and living drove the design for this project. Designers actively sought out input from firefighters which was incorporated in the planning. The Green Arch team worked very closely with the Commission, Fire Chief, engineers, and the contractor to collaborate on crafting solutions to address all concerns while staying in budget.
The modern design of the facility and its strong, clean lines quickly relay a feeling of security and dependability to all who enter. The building’s unique tower and backlit signage brighten the neighborhood’s skyline. The bold red tower conveys strength and provides invigorating natural light. Guests are greeted by a mural that showcases the commissioning of the district’s first fire truck, a nod to the district’s longstanding commitment to the community.
The station’s clever drive through apparatus bay safely enables vehicles to enter the facility from the back. A separate Gear Room provides staff with protection from chemical exposure.
The Green Arch team creatively met the client’s need for effective training space. The building features a spacious training room which is also available to the community. The dining area is designed to be used as a secondary training area and a small conference room is available for more intimate instruction. Space and technology for individual online study and continuing education is offered in an attractive Study Room.
The station’s design offers personnel a relaxing living environment that encourages teambuilding and physical fitness. A fitness room positioned near the showers provides access to the porch, exercise gear in the yard and a running path. A large kitchen/dining space is composed for flow with furnishings that promote interaction among firefighters and allow for comfortable family visits and an easy transition during shift changes.
The masonry exterior and interior polished concrete floors are durable and easy to maintain. Traditional brick reflecting the original station sits on a stone base that captures the cornerstone characteristic and reflects the strength and resiliency of those it houses.
Partners:
Roebuck Buildings: Ryan Mabus, Reuben Cheatham, Kenny Sanders, Phengtou Thor
Palmetto Structural Engineering: Ryan Summey
TFS Engineering: Drew Evans, Reggie Booker
Burdette Engineering: Bobby Bazemore, Peter Keew
Britt Peters and Associates: John Connelly
