OZ is deeply committed to quality public safety planning and design, bringing decades of specialized experience to every project. Our approach centers on creating well-designed environments that empower first responders to respond quickly, perform efficiently, and work safely during emergencies. By working closely with fire departments, we recognize that no two communities or teams are exactly alike. As such, we tailor our process to meet the unique operational, cultural, and logistical needs of each department—developing fire station-specific collateral directly tied to program development. This collaborative process is essential, as it enables us to gather valuable perspectives and input from all stakeholders, ensuring that the final design truly supports the needs of the entire team and the community at large.
This collateral includes 3D vignettes and fact-gathering materials, providing valuable insights for better decision-making during the concept phase of each project. In addition, we prioritize cost control throughout the entire process, from initial concept through construction, ensuring that every station is a precise and sustainable fit for its users and the community it serves. Collaboration extends not only to design but also to budget management and operational planning, making sure that all voices are heard and incorporated into the project’s foundation.
Over the past 30 years, our Fire Station team has developed an extensive portfolio that includes master plans, program development, site feasibility studies, research and development, health and safety improvements, sleep studies, budget studies, publications, funding support, test fits, station renovations, and a wide range of new, award-winning station designs. Each project is approached with a fresh perspective—our process includes in-depth consultations, collaborative programming sessions, and flexible design strategies to address each department’s specific goals, challenges, and aspirations. These consultations are a testament to the importance we place on working together, bringing department leadership, staff, and community members into the conversation to create the most effective solutions.
Led by Principal Kevin Schaffer, Associate Principal Eric Becker—a former volunteer firefighter with 11 years of experience—and Project Managers William Bussard and Kiley Baham, our team continually deepens its understanding of the evolving needs of modern fire departments. We go beyond fundamental design trends by integrating feedback from department leadership, staff, and stakeholders, and by adapting our methods to reflect new technologies, best practices, and community expectations. Our exploration and implementation efforts focus on constant improvement, with a special emphasis on the care and separation of hazardous areas from living spaces, the inclusion of onsite props for cost-effective training, acoustical separation of sleeping areas, and department-specific innovations. This ongoing dialogue and engagement with all team members ensures that our solutions are relevant, practical, and forward-thinking.
Our goal is to create fire station environments that are safe, healthy, and supportive of teamwork, efficiency, and seamless daily operations. We strive to enhance camaraderie and morale by providing ample recreation spaces, ensuring proper ventilation in all critical areas, designing adaptable multipurpose rooms, and creating stations that harmonize with the surrounding community’s aesthetics. By customizing each project to fit the specific requirements of the fire department and its personnel, we help ensure that the station serves as a source of pride and security for all occupants and the broader community. Collaboration is at the heart of this process, as it allows us to build facilities that truly embody the spirit and values of all those who serve within them.
OZ’s civic project team has a proven track record of over three decades working collaboratively on fire station design and innovation. Our experience spans a diverse range of communities, enabling us to bring best-in-class solutions while remaining responsive to the unique character and operational needs of each department we serve. We understand the critical importance of maintaining quality, program integrity, and resiliency at every stage of a project, and we work closely with our contractor partners to ensure these priorities are upheld. Ultimately, our commitment to a highly collaborative process throughout the entire project timeline fosters strong communication, teamwork, and shared success, underscoring how essential it is to involve everyone in shaping exceptional results for every client.
South Metro Fire Rescue Station No. 15
CENTENNIAL, COLORADO
The design of MVFR’s Erie Fire Station No. 15 focused on meeting the needs of a modern firehouse and addressing the concerns of the surrounding residents.
The station is located in a rapidly growing residential area in Erie, Colorado, and was developed as a Community Facility consistent with the permitted uses for the property. To be a good neighbor, the station was thoughtfully sited and oriented to minimize noise and light impacts on the surrounding community.
The design employs efficient spatial arrangement, separating decontamination zones and optimizing circulation to ensure the safe movement of apparatus, vehicles, and pedestrians throughout the site. Distinct internal spaces are highlighted by a series of low-sloping roofs, which reflect the neighborhood’s scale and bring natural daylight into circulation areas and apparatus bays.
Prioritizing the health, wellness, and safety of first responders, the station features dedicated decontamination zones to minimize contaminant exposure and advanced ventilation and filtration systems for maintaining clean indoor air. Living quarters and rest areas are strategically placed to reduce noise and stress, thereby supporting restorative sleep and downtime. Ample daylight throughout the station enhances morale and supports healthy circadian rhythms, while kitchen, fitness, and communal spaces encourage physical activity and foster a strong sense of community. Together, these features create a safe, supportive, and healthy environment for all personnel.
Monument Fire Protection District Station 3 MONUMENT,
COLORADO
Set against the dynamic backdrop of Monument, Colorado, the new fire station is thoughtfully designed to address the challenges posed by the region’s diverse climate while meeting the diverse operational needs of modern firefighters.
The architecture of Station No. 3 draws from the sweeping lines and understated elegance of prairie design, with broad horizontal roof overhangs providing muchneeded shade and shelter for firefighters and equipment. One of the station’s most distinctive features is its red tower, which rises boldly from the horizontal expanse. Serving as both a visual landmark and a functional watchtower, this element is integral to the identity of the station. Beyond its striking presence, the tower is designed for firefighter training, offering opportunities for rescue drills and physical preparedness, ensuring the crew remains ready for any emergency.
Equally notable are the glass apparatus bay doors lining the façade. These expansive doors fill the station with natural daylight, creating a bright and welcoming environment that supports the well-being of firefighters throughout the day while providing drive through access. At night, the illuminated bay doors transform the building into a softly glowing lantern, a reassuring symbol to the community of preparedness and safety visible from the adjacent heavily traveled highway.
Bold red accents, featured both outside and within, reinforce the fire station’s identity and provide vibrant contrast against a backdrop of enduring architectural finishes. Functionally the station focuses on clear and direct access from the second floor via two stairs and a slide pole to ensure efficient turnout times for the crew and faster response to the community.
The thoughtful site placement allows for future expansion, accommodating administrative spaces and additional emergency services as Monument grows. The design balances aesthetics, practicality, and the health of those who serve, while celebrating the vital role that training and readiness play in the life of the station
SIZE
18,927 sf ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE 12/26
AWARDS
FIERO Design Award – Merit
FEATURES
4 Drive Through Apparatus Bays
Living - 10 Bedrooms + Fitness
Kitchen and Dayroom Connected to Outdoor Patio
Training Tower and Outdoor Mezzanine Patio
Clerestory Glazing in Apparatus Bay
Decon and Apparatus Support
Training Room / Board Room
Slide Pole and Direct Bay Access
Mountain View Fire Rescue Erie Station No. 15
ERIE, COLORADO
The design of MVFR’s Erie Fire Station No. 15 focused on providing for the needs of a modern firehouse and allaying the concerns of the surrounding residents.
The station is located in a rapidly growing residential area in Erie, Colorado, and was developed as a Community Facility consistent with the permitted uses for the property. To be a good neighbor, the station was thoughtfully sited and oriented to minimize noise and light impacts on the surrounding community.
The design employs efficient spatial arrangement, separating decontamination zones and optimizing circulation to ensure the safe movement of apparatus, vehicles, and pedestrians throughout the site. Distinct internal spaces are highlighted by a series of low-sloping roofs, which reflect the neighborhood’s scale and bring natural daylight into circulation areas and apparatus bays.
Prioritizing the health, wellness, and safety of first responders, the station features dedicated decontamination zones to minimize contaminant exposure and advanced ventilation and filtration systems for maintaining clean indoor air. Living quarters and rest areas are strategically placed to reduce noise and stress, thereby supporting restorative sleep and downtime. Ample daylight throughout the station enhances morale and supports healthy circadian rhythms, while kitchen, fitness, and communal spaces encourage physical activity and foster a strong sense of community. Together, these features create a safe, supportive, and healthy environment for all personnel.
Upper Pine River Fire Protection District Fire Station No. 61 & Community Health Clinic
BAYFIELD, COLORADO
The Upper Pine River Fire Protection District hired OZ Architecture to design a Joint Public Safety Facility featuring a fire station, health clinic, and community space.
The integration of a fire station, health clinic, and community room within a single facility is a groundbreaking advancement for rural communities, particularly those that have long faced limited access to essential services. By uniting these critical elements under one roof, this project not only streamlines public safety and emergency response but also addresses persistent gaps in healthcare and community engagement.
For a rural and underserved area, the presence of a joint public safety facility represents a transformative shift. Traditionally, residents might have to travel significant distances to access medical care or rely on slower response times for emergencies due to geographic isolation. By combining paramedic services, a fully equipped clinic, and fire station operations, this facility ensures that life-saving care and rapid emergency response are both immediately accessible. The inclusion of private exam rooms, a lab, an x-ray room, and an ambulance bay means that urgent medical needs can be handled locally, reducing delays and improving health outcomes.
The multi-purpose training and community room further distinguishes this project, acting as a versatile hub for education, collaboration, and community gatherings. This space allows for ongoing training of first responders, health education for residents, and a venue for community events, fostering a sense of unity and resilience. Such a comprehensive approach is especially valuable in rural contexts, where resources are often stretched and community bonds play a vital role in collective well-being.
As a first-of-its-kind initiative, this joint facility sets a precedent for future rural development, centralizing services to maximize efficiency while nurturing the health and safety of the population. The thoughtful design anticipates evolving community needs and ensures adaptability for years to come, serving as a source of pride and a beacon of support for generations. By addressing both immediate and long-term challenges, this unique combination of fire station, clinic, and community room has the potential to redefine what is possible for rural communities facing similar barriers.
SIZE
Level 1: 11,460 sf
Mezzanine: 1,350 sf
Penthouse: 350 sf
ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE
Summer 2027
AWARDS
FIERO Design Award – Honor (Gold award) for Innovation, 2024
FEATURES
4 Apparatus Bays / Drive Through
Community Room
Volunteer Firefighter Tribute Hall
Community Health Clinic with Ambulance
Transport Bay
Sleeping Quarters
Crew Watch Office
Fitness Room
Kitchen, Dining and Dayroom
Training Apparatus
Decon
Ems Sleeping Room
Dayroom
Laundry
20. Kitchen / Dining Room
21. Outdoor Dining Patio
22. Fire Fighter Entry
Front Office
Exam Room
Critical Care Room 12. Ambulance
23. Cpt / Bc Sleeping Room
24. Crew Sleeping Room
25. Crew Watch Office
26. Postive Pressure Corridor
27. Mech / Elec Room 28. EMS Storage
Data / It Room 30. Decon Laundry 31. Lockers 32. Decon Bathroom
33. Apparatus Bay 34. Shop Maint / Equip Storage 35. SCBA Storage & Fill Station 36. Decon Gear Wash 37. Bunker Gear 38. Hose Tower
Fitness
Outdoor Fitness Patio
Denver Fire Department Station No. 40
DENVER, COLORADO
Denver voters approved a Capital Improvement Bond project for DFD Fire Station No. 40 to satisfy the impending growth around the airport.
The program called for three bays, housing shifts of up to eight firefighters, and new to Denver, accommodations for two EMTs. Two initial challenges faced OZ: the budget was established five years earlier while we were tasked to maintain the scope and add a more robust decontamination area. Secondly, limited site access was restricted to 56th Ave, the main road. The existing median could not be reconstructed to the required deceleration and stacking requirements to allow station access.
Working with city engineers, OZ located the entrance and egress as close to Telluride, the cross street, as possible. This allowed the apparatus to exit the opposite lane a short distance along 56th, keeping the functioning median. Building efficiency was maximized with a compact footprint in a simple articulated shape to meet the scope and approve the budget. Brick masonry was selected for its economic value and robustness, with the ability to add visual interest through the patterning and detailing of the walls. The health and welfare of the users were a significant concern, having the station functions located based on a separation of red, yellow, and green zones with an innovative central decontamination area.
Further health benefits include stress-reducing elements of a large, partially covered outdoor court off the day room for grilling and socializing, a private room for personal time, and copious natural light in the living, offices, and apparatus bays areas.
*EMS services included
SIZE
17,244 sf
ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE
September 2026
FEATURES
3 Apparatus Bays, Drive Through Bays
10 Sleeping Quarters
Office Space
Fitness Room
Kitchen and Dining
Private Courtyard
Decon
Hose Tower
Mountain View Fire Rescue Mead Fire Station No. 14
MEAD, COLORADO
The new fire station in Mead, Colorado, is a thoughtfully designed facility that strikes a balance between functionality and modern architectural aesthetics.
The station features four drive-through apparatus bays with bold red folding doors, ensuring quick and efficient access for emergency response vehicles. The crew’s living quarters, including seven bedrooms, are strategically positioned near the apparatus bays for rapid mobilization.
Serving as a vital civic amenity in the growing Town of Mead, this state-of-the-art fire station supports public safety infrastructure, giving reassurance to residents and businesses that emergency services can keep pace with population growth and development. The design features communal spaces, including a shared kitchen, dining area, dayroom, and outdoor patio, which nurtures a strong sense of camaraderie among first responders. These areas support teamwork, collaboration, and peer support, providing essential opportunities for rest, connection, and mutual encouragement that help build a cohesive and resilient firehouse community.
Distinctive sloped roofs and deep overhangs accentuate the entrance. At the same time, large expanses of glass in shared spaces create a vibrant, modern profile, filling the interior with natural light and supporting energy efficiency.
The Mead Fire Station is designed as a vital public amenity, strategically located in the center of Mead’s expanding districts to ensure emergency services are available where they are most needed. Its resilient, energy-efficient design sets a standard for sustainable infrastructure, reflecting Mead’s commitment to a safe and thriving community and ongoing municipal investment in public well-being and future prosperity.
SIZE
17,136 sf
ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE
08/26
FEATURES
4 Drive Through Apparatus Bays
Living - 9 Bedrooms + Fitness
Kitchen and Dayroom Connected to Outdoors Patio
Clerestory Daylighting in Bay + Living
Apparatus Support Spaces
Decon and Gear Wash Room
Crew Watch Office
Training Room
Big Sky Fire Department Station No. 3
BIG SKY, MONTANA
Big Sky Fire Department Station plays an important function not only as a fire rescue station but as a gateway to the Spanish Peaks development in Big Sky, Montana.
The station’s design exudes a strong civic presence while embracing a holistic approach that prioritizes efficiency, resilience, and enduring aesthetics—all within a practical budget. At the core of this approach is an unwavering focus on firefighter health and safety. The building layout is carefully planned to offer healthy, comfortable, and efficient spaces, supporting both the physical and mental well-being of those who serve. Dedicated zones for decontamination, advanced ventilation and filtration systems, and quiet living quarters are strategically integrated to minimize exposure to contaminants, reduce stress, and promote restorative rest and downtime. Ample daylight streams into the interior, enhancing morale and supporting healthy circadian rhythms, while communal kitchen, fitness, and gathering spaces encourage physical activity and camaraderie among first responders.
The architecture pays homage to its natural surroundings by utilizing locally inspired materials, colors, and forms that blend seamlessly with the terrain. Nestled into the hillside at the entrance to the Spanish Peaks neighborhood, the building is thoughtfully positioned to capture sweeping views, fostering a direct connection to nature for both firefighters and visitors. Expansive windows and outdoor patios invite the landscape inside, creating tranquil spaces for relaxation and reflection. The use of Class A fire-resistant materials— stone, fiber-cement, mass timber, and standing seam metal roofing—not only enhances the building’s durability and fire mitigation but also demonstrates a commitment to safety in the Wildland Urban Interface.
Mechanical and ventilation systems, along with wall cavity vents, are engineered to resist fire and ember intrusion, further safeguarding occupants against wildfire threats. The landscape design extends this fire mitigation strategy by featuring resilient, fire-resistant plants and layouts, offering the public a living example of best practices for safety in mountain environments. By integrating materials and landscaping that resonate with the local ecosystem, the station establishes itself as a visual and functional anchor for the community—a symbol of stewardship, resilience, and safety. The building’s connection to nature, both in form and function, enriches the everyday experience of firefighters and strengthens the bond between the facility and the Spanish Peaks community it serves.
SIZE
Level 1: 9,370 sf
Level 2: 3,980 sf
Total: 13,350 sf
ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE
12/26
FEATURES
3 Double Loading Apparatus Bays
5 Sleeping Quarters
Kitchen, Dining, And Dayroom
Training / Community Room
Fitness Room
Decon Area
Wildland Urban Interface
Landscaping
Sustainable Strategies
South Metro Fire Rescue Station No. 20 HIGHLANDS RANCH, COLORADO
For South Metro Fire Rescue’s Station No. 20, OZ created an award-winning design that echoes the historic character of the neighboring Highlands Ranch Mansion and Park while prioritizing the health, safety, and wellbeing of firefighters and first responders at the station.
The design of South Metro Fire Rescue’s Station No. 20 is deeply rooted in the character and legacy of the historic Highlands Ranch Mansion and Park. By drawing direct inspiration from the eclectic, barn-like architecture of the original ranch property, the station not only pays homage to the area’s heritage but also strengthens the cultural continuity between past and present civic structures. This architectural approach creates a visual and symbolic link with the community’s storied origins, making the fire station an extension of the historic ranch rather than a standalone facility. The barn-inspired form and detailing evoke a sense of familiarity and pride among residents, reinforcing the station’s role as both a protector and a steward of local tradition.
In addition to its architectural resonance with local history, the station’s design is intentionally crafted to enhance the health and well-being of the firefighters who serve there. Expansive windows, generous glazing, and doors that open to outdoor patios maximize daylight penetration throughout the interior. These strong indoor-outdoor connections enable firefighters to enjoy views of the surrounding landscape, which has been shown to promote mental restoration and reduce fatigue. Easy access to outdoor spaces provides opportunities for relaxation, fresh air, and informal gatherings, further promoting emotional well-being and peer support.
By integrating these residential-inspired elements and maintaining a harmonious relationship with the natural environment, the station creates a restorative atmosphere that nurtures both the physical and mental health of its occupants. Thoughtful placement of communal spaces with direct access to outdoor areas encourages movement and activity, while quiet zones with tranquil views offer moments of calm and reflection. In this way, the station becomes a modern civic amenity that respects and advances the legacy of Highlands Ranch, demonstrating how thoughtful design can honor history while supporting the contemporary needs and well-being of its firefighters.
SIZE
10,400 sf
COMPLETION
2021
FEATURES
3 Apparatus Bays
Sleeping Quarters
Office Space
Fitness Room
Kitchen and Dining
Training Apparatus
High Efficiency Envelope
High Efficiency VRF Mechanical System
Decon
AWARDS
FIERO Design Award – Merit (Silver award) for New Construction, 2024
FIERO Design Award – Commendation
Firehouse Station Design Award – Bronze, Career 2, 2021
MEZZANINE
Mountain View Fire Rescue Boulder Station No. 2
BOULDER, COLORADO
Station No. 2 is located in an area that includes a wide variety of outdoor activities, and contains many square miles of open space and urban development.
The department responds to a diverse range of emergencies, including rock climbing accidents, wildfires, and the more routine urban incidents typical of a community that bridges natural open spaces and developed areas. This broad scope of service requires a highly adaptable and well-equipped facility to address the unique challenges posed by the station’s varied response area. The new station was constructed to replace the department’s existing 1970s-era building on the site, reflecting a commitment to modernizing operations and better supporting both the firefighters and the community they serve.
Given the property’s limited size and several practical constraints— such as required site setbacks, topographic challenges, and zoning regulations—the design team had to work creatively to maximize functional space without exceeding the available footprint. These limitations ultimately shaped the solution: a compact, efficient twostory station that accommodates all essential program elements while fitting seamlessly into the site. The vertical design not only provides the necessary facilities for fire and EMS operations but also allows for living quarters, training areas, and apparatus bays to be thoughtfully organized for optimal workflow and rapid response.
The two-story configuration further allows for clear separation between operational zones—such as noisy apparatus bays and quieter living spaces—thereby supporting both the health and readiness of firefighters and EMTs. Despite the site’s challenges, the station’s design reflects a balance of operational efficiency, resilience, and community integration, enabling the department to effectively meet the evolving needs of the area’s residents and visitors.
SIZE
15,000 sf
COMPLETION
2013 FEATURES
6 Dorms
4 Apparatus Bays
Support Spaces
Crew office / Study
Fitness Room
Kitchen Connected to Day Room and Training Room
Decon
AWARDS
Firehouse Station Design Award, 2013
Denver Fire Department Northfield Station No. 39
DENVER, COLORADO
The Denver Fire Department sought a design that recognized the many roles a station must play in a community—from a functioning workplace for first responders and their equipment to a home away from home and a place of civic pride.
Northfield Station No. 39 was developed in response to the growing Northfield community in Central Park. Traditional exterior design and materials reinforce the legacy of the Denver Fire Department. At the same time, careful planning and interior detailing create a light-filled living area that supports firefighter wellness and ensures efficient access to apparatus.
The two-story design maximizes limited site space, allowing for operational efficiency and sensitive integration into the evolving neighborhood. The vertical layout separates public, operational, and living spaces, preserving open green areas. The station’s scale and materials harmonize with those of nearby residential and civic developments, creating a strong visual and community connection to Central Park.
A dedicated training tower and observation deck offer hands-on training opportunities for firefighters, serving as a neighborhood landmark that symbolizes the station’s role as a safety resource and civic anchor. The observation deck provides elevated views for training exercises.
Designed for longevity, operations and maintenance were prioritized for resiliency. The station meets LEED Gold standards, supporting the department’s sustainability goals and ensuring high environmental performance and reduced operational costs for years to come.
SIZE
14,300 sf
COMPLETION
2020
FEATURES
Daylighting Spine
Apparatus Storage
Public Zone with Meeting Room
Private Zone
Staff Residences
Watch Office
Fitness Room
Central Kitchen
LEED Gold Certified
AWARDS
Firehouse Station Design Award – Career 2 Notable, 2020
South Metro Fire Rescue Station No. 31
GREENWOOD VILLAGE, COLORADO
After South Metro Fire acquired a 1970s station in Greenwood Village, they brought OZ on to design a modern new station that would better support their ability to serve the community.
Situated on a compact site within an established residential neighborhood, the station’s design maximizes open green space. It minimizes impact on nearby homes by concentrating its two-story living area away from neighbors. Trucks enter Havana Street and exit onto Orchard Road, ensuring efficient access while reducing neighborhood disruption.
To gain approval for a significantly larger facility, the project team conducted extensive outreach, including neighborhood meetings, open houses, and direct consultations with adjacent homeowners. These sessions allowed residents to express concerns about traffic, noise, aesthetics, and property values. Transparent communication about design strategies—such as preserving green space and matching the scale and materials of nearby homes—helped alleviate concerns and foster trust. The team also shared data on rising emergency service demands, explaining that the previous station was inadequate for current and future needs. By demonstrating how the new facility would improve emergency response times and community safety, the project garnered broad support.
The new, larger station is essential to meet the area’s growing needs, providing space for additional apparatus bays, enhanced living and training facilities, and modern lifesaving equipment, including advanced EMS services. The upgraded design enables faster and more efficient emergency responses, as well as improved coverage. Outreach efforts emphasized that this expansion is a necessary investment in public safety, resilience, and preparedness for future growth. Thoughtful design and community engagement made the station a symbol of civic pride and commitment to neighborhood well-being.
The building’s simple forms and materials, including two hipped roofs over a clerestory atop a brick base, reduce its perceived height and help it blend with surrounding homes. The clerestory brings natural light into living quarters and apparatus bays, lowering energy usage
SIZE
12,500 sf COMPLETION 2015
6 dorms
3 Apparatus Bays / Drive Through + Support Spaces
Crew Office / Study
Fitness Room
Kitchen Connected to Day Room and Training Room
Decon
AWARDS
Firehouse Station Design Award – Career 2 Notable, 2019
APPARATUS BAY SUPPORT BUILDING SUPPORT CIRCULATION LIVING QUARTERS
Mountain View Fire Rescue Eldorado Station No. 9
BOULDER, COLORADO
Nestled in a rural valley east of Eldorado Springs, Mountain View Fire Rescue Eldorado Station No. 9 is a sophisticated fire station surrounded by Boulder’s open space and iconic Flatiron formations.
Located just a few miles from Eldorado Canyon State Park, Mountain Located just a few miles from Eldorado Canyon State Park, Mountain View Fire Rescue Eldorado Station No. 9 is thoughtfully designed to blend with its rural valley environment, reflecting the area’s natural beauty and ranching heritage. The facility features state-of-the-art apparatus storage, comfortable living quarters, and administrative offices, all integrated into a structure that complements the mountain landscape. A smaller outbuilding houses specialty rescue equipment, such as a snow cat, essential for reaching remote or difficult terrain during emergencies.
The station’s proximity to Eldorado Canyon enables rapid response to technical rescues for climbers and hikers facing hazardous conditions in the park’s rugged terrain. Crews are trained and equipped for complex rescues, ensuring swift aid in time-sensitive situations. A dedicated helipad adjacent to the station further enhances emergency capabilities by allowing quick medical helicopter access, reducing evacuation times for patients who need urgent care. This strategic infrastructure is vital in an area where challenging topography and limited road access can delay lifesaving interventions.
Overall, Mountain View Fire Rescue Eldorado Station No. 9 provides the local community and visitors to Eldorado Canyon State Park with efficient, modern emergency services, supporting safety and peace of mind for all who enjoy the region’s outdoor attractions.
SIZE
10,800 sf
COMPLETION 2018
FEATURES
Apparatus Storage
Helipad Design
Public Zone with Meeting Room
Private Zone
Staff Residences
Decon
South Metro Fire Rescue Station No. 32
CENTENNIAL, COLORADO
OZ designed this station to meet the current and future needs of the department and the community, improving site circulation and crew response.
South Metro Fire Rescue No. 32 consolidated two existing lots, which included the previous Station No. 32. The original fire station was considered outdated and smaller than necessary for Centennial’s population needs. Given the site's limited size, the new design features a two-story building with a partial basement, which reduces the overall footprint while providing firefighter living space.
The site for Station No. 32 presented a significant grade difference from east to west, which the design team leveraged to enhance the building’s functionality and efficiency. By strategically situating the structure on the sloped terrain, we were able to incorporate a partial basement without increasing the visible mass of the building above ground. This basement serves several essential purposes, including housing mechanical equipment and providing additional training spaces for firefighters. Locating mechanical systems in the cellar optimizes space on the primary levels for living quarters and operational areas. At the same time, dedicated training rooms support ongoing professional development and readiness for emergencies.
The intended appearance of the new station was to create a civic, traditional structure that is visually consistent with Station No. 31. By locating both stations near each other with similar designs, a district identity was established. The two-story layout enabled the building to meet property setback requirements while maximizing open space, circulation, and landscaping, thereby integrating the station into the surrounding neighborhood. EMS services included.
SIZE
15,000 sf
COMPLETION
2019
FEATURES
12 Dorms
4 Apparatus bays + Mezzanine
Support Spaces
Watch Office
Training Room
Crew Study
Fitness Room
Central Kitchen Connected to Day Room
Decon
AWARDS
Firehouse Station Design Award – Career 1 Notable, 2019
Denver Fire Department Lowry Station No. 18
DENVER, COLORADO
Denver Fire sought a design that would be a flagship of the latest fire technologies and could serve multiple functions.
Creating a new neighborhood in Denver’s Lowry redevelopment area presented OZ with the opportunity to design an iconic community support building. Situated at a prominent intersection in the heart of the former US Air Force Base, the Denver Fire Department's Lowry Station No. 18 serves as an anchor for the revitalized district. The Lowry neighborhood is a unique blend of history and modernity, where remnants of its military past coexist with contemporary mixeduse developments, parks, and vibrant residential communities.
Recognizing the historic significance of the site, the design of Station No. 18 thoughtfully reflects the area's heritage. The architectural approach draws inspiration from the classic forms and materials characteristic of the original base structures, such as brick facades, traditional rooflines, and symmetrical massing. These design choices create a visual connection to Lowry’s past while establishing a civic presence that resonates with the community’s identity. The fire station’s style pays homage to the legacy of the former base buildings, ensuring the new facility feels both familiar and welcoming within the evolving streetscape.
The Fire Department requested a traditional architectural style accommodating numerous training opportunities for the firefighters on site. They received a flagship building with the latest fire technologies, comfortable accommodation, and gathering spaces that not only serve operational needs but also invite community engagement. By blending historical references with modern functionality, Lowry Station No. 18 stands as a testament to the neighborhood’s ongoing transformation and commitment to honoring its roots while looking toward the future.
SIZE
13,779 sf COMPLETION 2014
FEATURES
Apparatus Storage
Helipad Design
Public Zone with Meeting Room
Private Zone
Staff Residences
LEED Gold Certified
ON-THE-BOARDS & CONCEPTS
Fire station design requires innovation—the result of collaboration, communication and creativity. OZ has been a leader in fire facility design for decades. We produce progressive, responsible, and timeless designs.
Our comprehensive range of services is designed to facilitate and achieve the successful completion of a highquality fire station facility.
The concept phase is a critical stage in any fire station project, serving as the foundation for successful design outcomes. During this phase, our team collaborates closely with stakeholders to refine ideas and explore various design possibilities. By sharing visual content—such as sketches, renderings, and digital models—we empower clients to participate in the decision-making process actively. These visual aids help clients understand spatial relationships, architectural styles, and material choices, allowing them to make informed decisions and provide meaningful feedback.
Through open communication and collaboration in the concept phase, we ensure the project aligns with the client’s vision, operational needs, and community identity. This iterative process not only refines the look and feel of the fire station but also fosters consensus among all parties involved. By establishing a clear direction early on, we minimize revisions later in the project and streamline the path toward construction. OZ remains deeply committed to building consensus around the concept design, ensuring that every voice is heard and integrated into the final vision for the fire station.
