Torrey Pines Fire Station

Clean air, clean bodies, clean gear; this is the central idea that The Torrey Pines Fire Station was designed around, actively working to support the wellbeing and safety of not only the surrounding community, but the firefighters, themselves.

Firefighters are exposed to a wide array of toxic chemicals and carcinogens daily, the harmful agents burying themselves in the fibers of clothing and the pores of skin. For this reason, it was imperative that the new fire work to mitigate those dangers. The program is separated into three zones—red, yellow and green—in order to reduce exposure and prevent cross-contamination of possible carcinogens that get carried back to the station house. Special care is given to firefighter comfort and well-being through healthy material choices, ample access to daylighting and views, access to natural ventilation, and opportunities for indoor/outdoor spaces at the kitchen and exercise room.

The design also aims for the new building to connect to its place. The Torrey Pines area is home to the nation’s rarest pine tree and has a unique and iconic character both built and natural. With the site carved out of its surrounding context, the building is anchored into the landscape on the east with a visual connection to campus, while opening up towards the public facing west with a well-defined public entry, a specimen torrey pine tree and expanded views from the shared living areas towards the west. The station is also the first in the region to include an all-electric fire apparatus, serving as a prototype for future City of San Diego stations.