Encinitas Fire Station No. 3 has been selected among the “best” in the state by California Construction magazine.

The statewide “Best of 2009” competition recognizes construction and design excellence, as judged by an independent jury of industry experts. More than 125 projects were nominated in a variety of categories for this year’s competition.

Station No. 3 is a 2-story concrete masonry structure with curving rooflines designed by Domusstudio Architecture. The new station spans 7,256 square feet, more than double its original size, and has the capacity to house extra engines and firefighters in the event of large-scale disasters like flooding or wildfire.

Built with an eye toward the future, the station’s normal capacity is for three firefighters and a battalion chief. Currently there is a firefighter, captain and engineer. The first floor of the station includes offices, a training classroom, physical fitness area and three oversized bays for emergency equipment. In addition to the main fire engine and one reserve engine, Station No. 3 is home to a rescue trailer specially suited to confined space emergencies.

The firefighters’ living area is upstairs, including four bedrooms with two beds each, a dining area, kitchen and day room. The station’s design also includes a deck for outdoor living space. In addition to stairs, which firefighters typically would use to respond to an emergency, the station also features a firefighters’ pole.

Sustainable systems at Station No. 3 include erosion control measures, storm water management, low water use landscaping, and highly efficient irrigation and water heaters. The station also has storage and collection areas for recyclables.

Energy efficiency also is evident in the lighting used at the station, including use of LED exit signs, compact fluorescent lighting fixtures and occupancy sensors, which automatically turn out lights in rooms when they aren’t in use.

The station used recycled building materials and use of regional materials, including the masonry block. Low-emitting/low VOC materials, finishes and coatings were used for the building’s flooring, paints and sealants. And much of the fire station’s equipment prior to demolition has been refurbished for reuse in the kitchen and laundry area of the new station.

The windows are tinted, dual glazed and operable for maximizing natural coastal breezes. This also reduces the air-conditioning and heating loads for the facility. The installed A/C and heating equipment is very efficient and sustainable, exceeding California Energy Commission standards.