Denver Fire Department, Northfield Station No. 39

Denver Northfield Fire Station No. 39 was built in response to the growing Northfield community in Stapleton, a mixed-use community built on a former airport site. As an integral part of the community, the station serves many functions—as the first responders’ workplace and home, a place for apparatus storage and repair, and a good neighbor within the community structure. The station is LEED Gold certified, and the overall design balances functionality with sustainability for this important public facility.

Traditional exterior design and materials were used to continue the strong image of the Denver Fire Department with careful attention to plan and detailing of the interior for a light-filled living area with efficient access to the apparatus bay at all times. As a public building, operations and maintenance are key to this 50/100 year building including utilizing sustainable design. To achieve an overall building energy use reduction of 33% spray foam insulation, OZ incorporated high performance glazing, and efficient lighting and mechanical systems. Healthy building materials and ample daylight through vertical glazing and skylights, a fitness center, and occupant controls were all implemented to support the comfort and health for the fire fighters. Water conserving toilets, faucets, and showers result in 46% water use reduction as well.