The new fire and ambulance station directly responds to contemporary urban challenges, combining operational efficiency with a positive impact on the community and the environment. Strategically located in the urban center, the station was positioned to ensure fast emergency response while preventing urban sprawl. The building’s solar orientation was carefully planned to maximize thermal gain in winter and reduce heat absorption in summer, significantly lowering year-round energy demand.
The structure is placed at the rear of the site, freeing up the front for a large, multifunctional public space. This urban gesture transforms the station into an active community hub, reinforcing its social role as a link between emergency professionals and the public. The project includes distinct areas for fire and ambulance services to ensure operational efficiency while maintaining shared spaces that promote collaboration between teams.
One of the project’s core ideas is transparency. The translucent skin allows partial views into the interior during the day, encouraging openness and community connection. At night, the building glows from within, becoming a visual landmark that symbolizes the constant presence of emergency services.
Environmentally, the project follows the AIA Framework for Design Excellence. Native vegetation was preserved where possible, and strategies such as rain gardens, bioswales, and rainwater harvesting systems were integrated to manage runoff and support sustainable water practices. The translucent façade, solar panels, natural ventilation, and high-efficiency materials are all part of the plan to achieve Net Zero Energy certification.
- Client: George Brown College
- Location: Toronto
- Team: Rafael Câmara, Hossein Yousefzade
- Area: 10.764ft² (4,095m²)
- Year: 2025
- Tech: Revit, Bim 360, Lumion, Photoshop
