DeLand Fire Station No. 81

City of Deland

Designed with a forward-thinking approach, the new DeLand Fire Station No. 81 has been carefully planned to meet the growing needs of the population. Situated adjacent to City Hall, the Police Station, and the Post Office, it symbolizes a strong sense of community and collaboration among various civic institutions, allowing for seamless communication and coordination during emergencies and daily operations. Having been in the heart of downtown DeLand for the last 50 years, the fire station holds a cherished and vital place within the community, fostering a strong bond between the firefighters and the citizens they serve.

“The mission of the Fire Department is to provide our citizens and visitors with the highest level of life safety and property protection available. Our new Station 81 replaced an outdated facility allowing us to further our mission and continue to keep our community safe now and well into the future.”
Todd Allen, Fire Chief
The station was designed to complement the historic architecture of downtown DeLand. The building's exterior aesthetic or palette is made of Chicago brick and red arched doors, reminiscent of a historic brigade station. The sloped roofs also balance the residential language of the neighborhood, ensuring that the fire station is a sensitive addition to the downtown fabric.

To maximize the urban 3-acre site, training components were integrated into the project’s site plan. The training tower utilizes the 2-story egress stair by adding a third story with integrated standpipes to allow for confined space training, rappelling, a hose, and rooftop and a mezzanine for drills to be practiced onsite.
As a more visible and accessible resource for the community, the station's open and inviting design features large windows and an inviting entrance. The community spaces are located on the first floor and include a community room, a kitchen, and a playground. These spaces are designed to be used by the community for a variety of events, such as fire prevention education programs, open houses, and safety fairs.

Awards

  • 2022 Bronze Award- Career 1 Fire Station, Firehouse Magazine