LAUGHLIN/BULLHEAD INT'L AIRPORT, AIRCRAFT RESCUE FIRE FIGHTING (ARFF) STATION
The Darryl E. Thompson Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Station is a state-of-the-art facility, fully self-contained with three apparatus bays, sleeping quarters, kitchen and training accommodations. A distinctive feature is the second-floor Emergency Command Center, which overlooks the entire Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport and serves as the operations room during emergency disaster drills or actual events.
INSPIRED DESIGN:
This challenging yet magnificent site, nestled in a valley between the Colorado River and the majestic Black Mountain peaks, was our inspiration and guide for this station design. The building responds to a series of ascending surfaces, where evidence of time can be seen through the varying linear striations of the mountains. Using planar building forms, the station exudes an aesthetic balance between layers of concrete block, steel and glazing to help blur the boundaries between the building and its site, all while capturing the picturesque colors of the Mojave Desert landscape.
THOUGHTFUL STEWARDSHIP:
The structure takes advantage of the sloped site by nestling into the mountainside. The fenestrations were carefully placed on the west face to provide maximum view to the runway and natural light into the station, while providing protection from the harsh climate. The building becomes a part of the landscape.
CREATIVE TEAMWORK:
DWL has been working with IFP for more than 15 years on a variety of projects. Our relationship began with different management but maintained and grown through changes in airport staff thanks to the collaboration and trust built over time. DWL has enjoyed the seamless transition and we look forward to a long partnership with IFP.
ENDURING COMMITMENT:
The DWL staff that has worked on IFP projects has been consistent for the past 15 years. We pride ourselves on staff retention which means we can dedicate experts and strengthen relationships over time.
COMPLETION: 2013
SIZE: 13,000 SF
DELIVERY METHOD: DESIGN-BID-BUILD
