Sorg Architects

Engine House 14

Washington, DC

The modernization of Engine Company 14, including renovation and addition, provides an opportunity to create a new and more prominent image for a public neighborhood facility that has not been significantly upgraded since its construction in 1944. The modernization of Engine Co. 14 consists of a comprehensive interior upgrade, including replacement of the Apparatus Bay. Its modern design sets a new benchmark for future Engine House renovations.

The addition expands the Engine House from its current size of 8,253 SF to approximately 12,575 SF. The design solution places additions at the front and back of the two existing wings, preserving and restoring the taller Apparatus Bay as a historic gesture and centerpiece and creating a new exterior appearance for a majority of the wings, while also establishing a formal public entrance that engages access to the community. Both of these additions bring modernity to the facility, with glass elements that compliment and contrast with the more historic masonry form of the Apparatus Bay, which features the iconic fire engine red vehicle doors.

The design is on track to meet LEED Gold certification.