Mason City Fire Department

Like any business vying and competing for workforce, the Mason City Fire Department faces a constant challenge of recruiting and retaining staff. The City realized they must invest in more desirable living and working quarters in order to entice new firefighters to their team. An addition and renovation to the Department aims to accommodate more personnel and enhance operations necessary to effectively engage with the public and respond to emergencies.

The addition is informed by the concept of a ladder, a critical circulation tool used by firefighters to expedite the process of transporting themselves to areas of need. This concept is expressed down the corridor of the dormitory, funneling personnel in an orderly and unobstructed path toward the apparatus bays. Rungs are mirrored in a central skylight offering an abundance of natural light, which promotes physical and mental well-being in the living quarters during downtime. The dorm exterior expresses strength and protection through the armor-like material and strong, structural integrity of metal plates.

Ultimately, the design aims to optimize the safety and efficiency of Department operations while demonstrating a commitment to staff accommodations and community welfare.