Iowa fire station embraces biophilia to reduce PTSD in firefighters

by arslan_ahmed | April 25, 2023 11:18 am

A fire station in Marion, Iowa, has been designed using a sustainability consultant’s 14 biophilic principles to reduce post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in firefighters.

According to the architect, OPN Architects, the design stayed loyal to the principles of biophilic design as outlined in the white paper, 14 Patterns of Biophilia, published by the consultant, Terrapin Bright Green. The motivation was for the firefighters to calm down after coming back to the station from a stressful operation.

The 1,970-m² (21,200-sf) building’s plan and massing are centered around a two-story apparatus bay, with full-height glass doors on both the north and south elevations, allowing for ample daylight and a connection to the surrounding community. Shou sugi ban wood, charred using controlled fire, wraps around the living and office spaces to add depth, texture, and contrast with the smooth glass plane. Two Ipe wood terraces, sheltered by a roof and wall trellis, compliment the interior spaces, while a green roof surrounds all living and sleeping areas.

The lobby serves as the primary first level circulation, mediating between a tree grove and a history wall, displaying the fire department’s rich history and tradition. The strategic sequencing of spaces includes a decontamination clean room between the bays and office/living areas to mitigate exposure to fire and ash carcinogens. On the opposite side of the bays, the hose-drying tower doubles as a training area for simulated rescues. Training opportunities continue outside, where the retention pond serves as a site for ice rescue training.

The living areas, wrapped in full-height glazing with exposed wood ceilings, feature a full kitchen, a large family-style table, and a TV and gaming area, providing firefighters with a variety of spaces to relax and recharge. Circadian lighting is used throughout to synchronize the firefighters’ wake-sleep cycle with natural light.

According to the architect, the design imbibes the 14 principles in the following ways:

Creating a visual connection with nature: The use of full-height glass in both the apparatus bay and living areas, as well as two exterior decks, establishes a powerful link between the community and the natural environment, enhancing the visual connection with nature.
Creating a non-visual connection with nature: The presence of manicured grass, a prairie, and a tree grove, in addition to a retention pond, fosters a non-visual connection with nature, creating a habitat that attracts various forms of wildlife to the site.
Thermal and airflow control: The building’s interior environment is made comfortable and energy-efficient using a geothermal system, while operable windows have been installed in all spaces to ensure proper thermal and airflow control.
Incorporation of water feature: The retention pond on the site serves multiple purposes, functioning not only as a stormwater management solution, but also as a potential location for water and ice rescue operations.
Use of lighting: The large outdoor patio is surrounded by a trellis that generates dynamic shadow patterns that change throughout the day, casting a diffused light against the Ipe wood deck and shou sugi ban exterior.
Creating connection with natural systems: The exterior gathering spaces and glass elements establish a direct link with natural systems, enabling a connection with the circadian rhythms of the day and seasonal variations. Such connections are crucial for regulating sleep-wake cycles, which are vital for the wellbeing of firefighters.
Use of biomorphic patterns: The multi-purpose training room features carpeting that imitates the appearance of moss and stones, while hexagonal-shaped tiles, spherical lights, and glass etched with branch patterns all contribute to the use of biomorphic forms and patterns in the space.
Use of natural materials: The exterior skin of the building is clad in shou sugi ban wood, complemented by cedar and Ipe wood decks. The interior features exposed structural wood decking, establishing a material connection with nature.
Creating a contrast of order and complexity: The building’s design adheres to a strict module, creating an orderly appearance that contrasts with the complexity inherent in the exposed wood elements and the biomorphic forms and patterns of the finishes and lighting.
Prospect and refuge: Outdoor decks offer a valuable escape from the various stressors that come with being a first responder. The two decks, one smaller and private, and the other larger, provide both the opportunity for a good view and a safe haven. Although it’s essential for firefighters to have access to these decks, they also prefer not to be in the public eye. To ensure privacy, the decks are enclosed by a trellis that serves as both a horizontal and vertical shade and a barrier.
Risk/peril: The glass railing and sedum green roof on the exterior decks create a seamless transition between the patio and the green roof, eliminating the perception of a vertical edge. Moreover, the training stair and platform simulate risk scenarios, allowing firefighters to prepare for their life-saving duties.

The project has been a recipient of several awards and honors, including the 2023 impact award by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Iowa Chapter; 2022 AIA Central States Region honor award; 2022 International Interior Design Association (IIDA), Great Plains Chapter honorable mention, and 2021 AIA, Iowa Chapter, honor award.

Source URL: https://www.constructionspecifier.com/iowa-fire-station-embraces-biophilia-to-reduce-ptsd-in-firefighters/