Encinitas Fire Station No. 3

This three bay Fire Station is located at the edge of a unique residential neighborhood in the North Coastal portion of the City of Encinitas known as Leucadia. This neighborhood is known for its laid back beach atmosphere and its desire to maintain its non-urban and charming character that has withstood the onslaught of development almost everywhere else in the City and North County. Many cars in the area sport bumper stickers that say, “keep Leucadia funky”.

Fitting into the specific neighborhood location, the project was designed to be a little “edgy” and embrace the eclectic and often unusual design parameters of the area. Neighborhood meetings were conducted by the Architects and input was solicited from the neighbors to ensure their receptivity to the design and planning. The existing station, on the same site, was an old converted single family residence that did not meet any current standards for safety, ADA, nor functional requirements. It was extremely “funky”.

The new curving metal roofs, exposed bead blasted CMU, lap siding, and expansive glazing to the west, (all elements seen frequently in the community) allowed the project to fit within its residential neighborhood setting and still retain the uniqueness of Leucadia. The community has embraced the design as part of their own character.

Sustainable Design concepts were utilized throughout the site and building design and generally designed to LEED silver standards. Site orientation with roof overhangs took advantage of views and solar shading. Recycled materials were utilized in the flooring products throughout; from the vinyl strip flooring, to the carpet, to the rubber flooring at the Exercise Room.

One of the most difficult challenges facing the project team was the phasing requirement to provide for continued operation of the existing station to maintain the coverage/response requirements to the area, which was accomplished by collaboratively working with the city, department and the general contractor. The project has garnered many design awards as highlighted above.