Projets / Pont-Rouge Fire Station
A fire station designed for performance and community integration
Built on a constrained site, the Pont-Rouge Fire Station was carefully planned to optimize every square meter and ensure smooth circulation for emergency vehicles.
From the outset, the team embraced an innovative and collaborative approach, aiming to balance operational efficiency, sustainability, and civic presence. The simple, refined volume stems directly from this intent to deliver a building that is reliable, functional, and firmly rooted in its environment.
A clear and efficient spatial organization
To meet staff needs and address site constraints, the program was divided into two distinct zones: the living area—housing training spaces, locker rooms, and offices—and the garage zone. This rational organization minimizes the building’s footprint and supports intuitive circulation.
Openings were strategically positioned to provide unobstructed views, bring in abundant natural light, and create a visual connection between the community and the activity within the fire station.
A durable and warm mass timber structure
Guided by a minimalist approach, the structural design relies on a glulam timber frame left exposed throughout the building. This choice reflects a strong commitment to sustainability while creating a welcoming atmosphere for staff. The long-span beams—some exceeding four feet in depth—free up the garage space and offer maximum flexibility. Even the bracing elements, also made of glulam, contribute to the architectural character and the warm identity of the facility.
A thoughtful dialogue between materials and context
Material selection played a central role in the project’s development. The exterior copper-toned metal cladding creates an elegant echo to the brick shades of the neighboring City Hall, ensuring a harmonious integration into the site. Shou Sugi Ban–inspired charred wood is used as both the primary siding and as an accent around openings. This ecological, durable, and fire-resistant material subtly evokes the building’s function while reinforcing its distinctive identity.