Portfolio
LOCATION: San Jose, CA
CLIENT: City of San Jose Public Works
ARCHITECT: RMW Architects
New, two-story 15,000 square foot fire station in downtown San Jose. Major features include structural steel brace frame structure with plaster and Eflex cement wall panel exterior skin system, three double-deep bays, a hose tower, fuel system, emergency generator, separate decontamination and gear rooms, landscaped interior courtyard, a Public Safety Answering Point, and vehicle exhaust system.
G&S took great care and coordination to carry out the aesthetic integrity of the station's award-winning design features -- most notably the modern, industrial-style panel exterior, the "jewel box" roll-up doors and the natural ventilation systems which engage strategically placed fans, operable windows, and an interior, landscaped courtyard.
Upon completion of the new station G&S carefully relocated the historic "freedom bell" which was used by San Jose's original fire department in the late 1800's and installed it at the front of the station upon request from the owner. It soon became an appropriate focal point for the city and tribute to fallen firefighters, as the events of 9/11 occurred only months after its relocation.
Award:
Honorable Mention, Fire Chief Magazine, November 2001