Hughes Fire Equipment: A Purpose-Built Facility for Fire Truck Certification
Project Overview
Hughes Fire Equipment is a 15,400-square-foot certification facility located in Meridian, Idaho. The building supports fire truck certification, testing, and maintenance operations. EVstudio designed a structure that balances administrative needs with heavy-duty industrial requirements.
The facility combines office space and a high-capacity service shop. This dual-use approach improves efficiency and supports daily operations. It also allows staff and technicians to work seamlessly within one building.
Supporting Fire Truck Certification Operations
The building includes a 2,600-square-foot office area at the front of the site. This space supports administrative, management, and support functions. It creates a professional interface for staff, vendors, and visitors.
Behind the office, a 12,800-square-foot shop area supports fire truck operations. The shop accommodates vehicle parking, equipment storage, and testing activities. Its size and layout allow fire trucks to move safely and efficiently.
In addition, the shop includes specialized support spaces. These include a steam cleaner room and a pump test room. Each space plays a critical role in the certification process.
Dual Construction Methods for Performance and Efficiency
The Hughes Fire Equipment facility uses two distinct construction methods. Each method responds directly to programmatic and operational needs. This approach balances cost, performance, and constructability.
The office portion uses traditional stick-frame construction. This method supports flexibility in layout and architectural detailing. It also allows efficient integration of office systems.
Rough-sawn lumber trusses and framing define the covered entry roof. These elements create a strong visual presence at the building entrance. They also reinforce the facility’s functional, industrial character.
Pre-Engineered Metal Building for the Shop Area
The shop portion of the building uses a pre-engineered metal building system, or PEMB. This construction method supports large clear spans and increased height. Both are essential for housing fire trucks and specialized equipment. PEMB construction allows efficient structural performance. It reduces the need for interior columns. As a result, vehicles can maneuver safely within the space.
Additionally, PEMB systems support faster construction schedules. They also provide durability for demanding industrial environments. This makes them ideal for service and certification facilities.
Coordinating Two Systems into One Cohesive Facility
Integrating two construction systems requires careful coordination. Structural transitions must align cleanly between the office and shop areas. EVstudio coordinated these systems to function as a unified building.
The design ensures consistent performance across differing structural materials. It also supports long-term durability and ease of maintenance. This coordination improves operational reliability over time.
Moreover, the combined system allows the building to meet height requirements. It also supports wide-span needs without compromising office comfort. The result is a facility tailored precisely to its use.
A Facility Designed for Function and Longevity
The Hughes Fire Equipment building supports essential public safety infrastructure. Its design prioritizes functionality, durability, and efficiency. Every space responds directly to operational requirements.
By pairing stick-frame construction with PEMB systems, the project achieves balance. Administrative spaces remain comfortable and welcoming. Meanwhile, the shop area performs at an industrial scale.
Ultimately, the facility demonstrates how thoughtful structural design supports specialized operations. It stands as a strong example of purpose-built industrial architecture in Idaho. The project reflects EVstudio’s ability to align structure with mission-driven use.
Project Page: Hughes Fire Equipment – EVstudio
