Mercer Island Fire Station 92
Mercer Island Fire Station 92
The Miller Hull Partnership
YEAR
2015
LOCATION
Mercer Island, WA, United States
TYPE
Government + Health › Fire/police/military
This building replaces a 1960's era small volunteer fire station updated with incremental additions over the years.
Seismic deficiencies and years of deferred maintenance had left the original structure unsafe, with little street presence on a highly visible and heavily trafficked community thoroughfare, directly across from a 113 acre park.
Providing open and inviting views in the apparatus bay from the sidewalk and street creates a more positive connection to the community.
Cedar slats at the main entry form a semi-permeable screen, providing building identity while limiting views to a second floor outdoor deck.
A budget conscious public project, this fire station integrates state-of-the-art sustainable design strategies including an airtight building envelope resulting in a 75%reduction from code allowed infiltration levels and providing enhanced thermal comfort for firefighters.
Making what is often an invisible service more visible enables it to be a more engaging, welcoming and positive presence in the community it serves.
