McDonald Road Community Fire Station

We were appointed to develop proposals to retrofit the existing active fire station at McDonald Road, Edinburgh. The works were to upgrade the facilities to reflect modern working practices, provide new corporate facilities, incorporate the Fire Museum formerly located at Lauriston Place and improve environmental performance.
The existing concrete frame has been retained. A new external envelope adopting a defined top and bottom around the principal corner at Dryden Terrace wraps the concrete frame. The improved thermal efficiency and removal of thermal bridges along with the retained structure, reduced both operational and carbon emissions.
Views both into and out of the building have been optimised, forming picture windows to key spaces and adopting a hierarchy of openings to emphasise building entrances and principal rooms creating a more positive street presence.
Internally, the changing rooms, lockers, welfare and sleeping facilities were rearranged to improve privacy and comfort for staff and to reflect SFRS corporate values.
Social spaces for rest and relaxation, including a gym, TV room and canteen for the staff create different environments to reflect differing needs and social activities.
The new museum creates space for exhibits including historic fire tenders and showcases the history of fire fighting in Scotland for visitors and the public. The museum is supported by spaces for functions and community meetings, along with general office space.