New Braunfels Fire Station No. 7
Nestled on the edge of the Texas Hill Country, the New Braunfels Fire Station No. 7 represents both tradition and innovation. The station’s façade features native limestone and green siding, paying homage to the renowned hue of Texas sage plants, while complementing the iconic fire-station red doors and storefront. However, the building’s character and purpose extend far beyond its aesthetic appeal.
Station No. 7’s use of the previously developed prototype efficiently optimizes a small section at the front of the city’s 12-acre municipal utility complex. Surrounded by existing commercial developments, this strategic location places the station closer to I-35, ensuring swift emergency responses. 80% of the department’s calls are for medical emergencies, therefore, the positioning of the station’s medic unit near one of the nation’s busiest interstate corridors is vitally important. Additionally, this location provides support for the planned fire training facility at the rear of the complex.
This sophisticated, two-story station serves as a home-away-from-home for 13 firefighters and EMS crew members per shift. Its interior design features light-colored stone walls that match the exterior, wood acoustical ceilings, and clerestory lighting, creating a comfortable and inviting open concept living area. Expansive windows in the watch office and upstairs study offer excellent views of the station’s front entry, enhancing the crew’s experience while writing reports and completing training. Embracing tradition, the station includes two brass fire poles within the combination stairwell/airlock spaces, allowing quick access to the bays from the second-floor bedrooms. A private, wrap-around back porch provides the perfect place for the crew to decompress or complete an outdoor workout.
To the dedicated men and women of the New Braunfels Fire Department, this station is more than just a building; it represents the City of New Braunfels’ commitment to their well-being and protection of the beloved community.
