Karns Volunteer Fire Dept. Station No. 2

The Karns Volunteer Fire Department sought a design team to work with them on a new station to serve their coverage area near Knoxville, Tenn. WSKF Architects and Barge Waggoner Sumner & Cannon collaborated on the design. Functionality, a cost-effective approach and durability were primary considerations. The resulting 9,500-square-foot station includes two drive-through apparatus bays and support spaces for gear storage, hose rack and SCBA rooms. The 6,000-square-foot residential section includes six two-person bunkrooms, office and communication space, fitness room and a training room for groups up to 45 and other multi-purpose uses. To minimize long-term maintenance, WSKF and BWSC incorporated stained concrete and tile floors, solid wood cabinetry, a standing seam metal roof and other durable exterior materials.