Village of Ruidoso Main Fire Station

This two story consisted of site development, and construction of a new fire station facility. The project consisted of a two-story building with concrete foundations, concrete slabs on grade, 2nd-story composite floor slabs, stone masonry veneer, light and heavy guage steel framed walls, painted exposed exterior structural steel framing, single-ply membrane roofs, four-pipe fancoil HVAC system with dedicated makeup air unit, exhuast systems, water-repellent treated Western Red Cedar siding, galvanized metal roof and fascia systems, aluminum storefront glazing and window systems, insulated glazing, and overhead coiling bay doors. The interior generally consists of exposed polished concrete floors sealed, carpet in selected areas, ceramic tile floors and base in toilets, athletic flooring in the exercise room, painted gypsum board walls, exposed concrete walls sealed, painted gypsum board ceilings, acoustical suspended ceilings, painted exposed structural steel structure & deck ceilings, solid core maple doors, maple veneer & metal casework, stainless steel kitchen counters, metal hardware & accessories, and window shades. The work also included related HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical, and Special Systems.   

The long structure of the Ruidoso Main Fire Station emphasizes simplicity, and is accented with large openings at functional nodes and smaller openings at opportune locations.  All openings take full advantage of views, allow the influx of north light and could be used to define both indoor and outdoor spaces.  The Station’s design evolved as an architecture abstractly influenced by it’s setting:  local materials, natural surroundings, and cultural/social heritage.  As a landmark, the new facility contributes to the village identity, sense of safety, professional commitment, and stability.

In December of 2008, this station was honored with an American Institute of Architects Design Award.

Fire engines are the essence of any firehouse, and as such dictate the very nature of the structure, from the siting to the massing to the finish materials. The Ruidoso Main Fire Station is accented with a clear and linear floor plan, which provides a crucial unobstructed path to the fire pole and stairs leading to the apparatus bay. Providing a congenial living environment for the firefighters, the space is formed around the concept of allowing as much northern light to filter in to highlight views of the surrounding area. Long and narrow in the style of an historical longhouse, the station is built in a one-to-seven proportion. A mountain setting is reflected in the skillful use of natural elements including wood. The appearance is light and airy while still maintaining its crucial function. Comprising 14, 500 sq ft, the fire station is an excellent value, considering the construction challenges of building it in front of a steep mountain, with 14 ft tall retaining walls shoring up its stability

Steve Malett

Sq Ft: 14,500

Owner: Village of Ruidoso

Architect: Rohde May Keller McNamara

Location: Ruidoso, NM

Value: $4,111,581