KENTUCKY COMMUNITY & TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM
Elizabethtown, Kentucky
The National Responder Preparedness Center is creating a state-wide firefighter training program that provides comprehensive training to all future firefighters across the state as well as miscellaneous military training and junior firefighter training. The goals identified by the agency were twofold: quantitative goals that included classrooms, high-bay spaces, a mock fire station, and a burn tower; and qualitative goals such as a state of the art building that is professional, functional, and instills a sense of pride in program attendees.
There were a number of project challenges for the design team to address: The site included mine spoils, an existing concrete pad, and storm water drainage concerns. Structurally, the building design needed to respect the precedent established by surrounding structures and required column-free, large expanses in the high-bay training space.
Omni Architects’ approach began with a robust programming exercise, along with a concurrent master plan update for the campus. All building systems were evaluated for cost, efficiency, and primary functions. For example, repetitive structural systems maximize construction efficiency, while tailoring MEP systems to specific space functions maximizes energy efficiency. Program elements were organized for maximum flexibility and optimal space utilization.
Omni organized the plan into a one third/two thirds division of function: one third was allocated to classroom and offices, with two thirds dedicated to the high bay and mock fire station training area – a plan that is reflective of the two major components of the training program. The plan further arranges functions into “clean” areas and “dirty” areas, and clusters mock fire station support spaces.
The building design supports the qualitative goals by incorporating red metal panels on the exterior, which differentiates the building but still matches the existing metal panel aesthetic of the original NRPC building. Glass panels in and above the garage doors showcase the vehicles and allow natural daylight to permeate the interior training area. Low cost and low maintenance finish materials were selected for the interior, with specialty materials chosen for the lounge – a space created for camaraderie and place making – that included vinyl graphics used for wayfinding and to create a wall of remembrance.