Out of the flames, but into the fire (design)!  Jennifer Bettiol, BRW Associate and Project Manager, was honored at the grand opening of the New Richmond Central Fire Station with her very own, custom-made firefighter helmet.  Chief Michael Youngblood and the staff at Richmond fire department wanted to thank Ms. Bettiol for her hard work, dedication, and insight throughout design – so they decided to make her an honorary member of the team!

Located on the edge of Richmond’s Historic District and in the shadow of the Fort Bend County Court House, the new Central Fire Station compliments the significant surroundings of Richmond, Texas. The integration of traditional architectural elements nods to the origins of this historic Texas town.  Special attention was given in the design to include unique architectural details by using flat arches, blended brick colors and a combination of smooth and rough cut limestone to articulate areas of significance.  The historic exterior style melds into the lobby of the administrative wing by means of brick clad walls, richly colored vinyl plank floors and a custom alcove to house the department’s historic Model-T fire truck. 

The new Central Station separates the more publicly accessed administrative area from the working firefighter area by placing the apparatus bays between these two wings.  The administrative wing provides offices for the fire chief, assistant fire chief, fire marshal and fire inspectors. A glass-walled conference room provides natural views and daylight. The firefighter wing includes a fully appointed fitness room with a private full bath available for use by all city employees. An open concept kitchen, dining, and dayroom area provides plenty of space for relaxing.

With features like space for up to ten large recliners, oversized windows and a central kitchen island, the bottom floor feels like home. Central Fire Station’s second floor is the epitome of well-organized design. It packs in private sleeping rooms, bathrooms, utility rooms and apparatus spaces for items like bunker gear and evidence storage. Between the cozy first floor and the efficient second floor, this 16,965 SF fire station is prepared to serve the growing needs of this Texas community for years to come.