In Quarters: Bixby, OK, Fire Department Headquarters

This facility received the Career 1 Notable award in the 2024 Firehouse Station Design Awards. Find the full list of winners here.

The new facility is vital in incorporating essential medical services and providing faster/more
localized response teams throughout the city of Bixby. The facility aims to adhere to the design style that was established by the city while continuing the rich architectural vocabulary of traditional fire stations. The result is an elegant, modern building that’s rooted in tradition and ensures a safe and comfortable environment for firefighters, administrative staff and visitors.

The new facility re-envisioned and analyzed the function and dynamics of a modern-day fire station and its effect on the community. Separation of the different spaces was a strong consideration and is achieved by dividing the public elements of a fire station and the private elements of a living area. The facility is separated into three general areas: administrative/public spaces, apparatus bays and living area. The facility has a grand west-facing entry that welcomes visitors to the fire station, including administration/emergency operations center (EOC)/training). The entry’s dual entry points extends the usability of the station beyond business hours by offering secure access to EOC/training facilities independent of the administrative areas. The placement of glass throughout the public areas invites visitors to see into the apparatus bays, which serve as the “spine” that connects the public side to the private firehouse side.

The living area side of the facility is accessed through a private parking lot that’s tucked behind the building. It’s divided into three general areas: sleeping quarters, a fitness room and a dayroom/kitchen. Acoustics, durability, flexibility and warmth are paramount to this space. A “home” feel was required and achieved by scaling down the spaces in the private areas and opening up the communal and publicly visible areas.

The use of large expanses of glass and generous overhangs creates indoor/outdoor spaces that are usable throughout the year.

Architect/Firm Name: Bixby Fire Department