Encinitas Fire Station #5

Encinitas Fire Station #5, Encinitas, CA

• Best North Coast Fire Station: 2003, San Diego Architectural Guide

The small size of the site located below street level elevation proved a challenge to accommodate the desired drive thru operation of the fire apparatus vehicles, accessibility for the general public, and separation of public and quiet areas. The city requested that the building’s character complement the existing older residential neighborhood and not impose an institutional, utilitarian image. At the same time long-life and durability were high City priorities. Segmented, residential roof forms gave residential scale and character to the project.