This facility serves as the Headquarters, Response Station, Emergency Operations Center (EOC), and Dispatch Center, also functioning as a backup Management Center. It provides 24-hour comprehensive fire and water rescue services, along with EOC and dispatch functions.
The programming and planning conducted by S2 aimed to address optimal functional and spatial needs, improve response and chute times, and ensure separation between EOC and dispatch areas. This process involved multiple stakeholder working sessions.
The building’s design draws inspiration from the city’s coal mining history and radial downtown layout. The vision features a white structure that seems to float above a dark base, reminiscent of floating water houses and boats in the city harbour. This design is an abstract representation of the coal mines, a significant part of the city’s heritage and one of its foundational industries.
The two-story white form, elevated above the historically inspired base, considers the downtown’s radial plan and connection to the waterfront. The angled “fins” projecting from the building’s façade mirror the angular characteristics of the original downtown layout, which remains largely intact today, as well as the rhythmic pattern of waves approaching the shoreline.
