Frank G. Relf Architect, P.C. and Beth Donner Designs honored

Frank G. Relf Architect, P.C., a leader in the design of fire and emergency service facilities and Beth Donner Designs, recently received a Silver Award for their professional design plans for the renovation of the Merrick Hook and Ladder Company Co. No. 1 firehouse. The firm's submission to Fire Chief Publications' 2007 Station Style Design Awards won recognition by the Station Style judges in the "Renovation-Remodeled" category. The renovation's pleasing traditional design, use of materials and scale of design helped to capture the award for the firms. The aging firehouse was renovated and transformed into a warm and open facility with enhanced functionality. The upgrade was a significant enhancement to the character of the neighborhood and allows the Merrick Hook and Ladder Co. No. 1 to better meet the changing fire service needs of the community. The project consisted of taking down the two-story portion of the firehouse built in the 1920s. The firehouse was then expanded to include a third bay in the rear and other enhancements were added. The newly remodeled facility provides the fire company with the much needed space to perform all the functions of a busy, modern fire fighting operation. The interior was designed to create a warm and comfortable environment for volunteers. The goal was to create an atmosphere that would be attractive to volunteers and provide them with a place where they would want to spend time, relax and participate in training. "The original firehouse/garage defined the character of the neighborhood for nearly 50 years, and we wanted the new building to fit in and be embraced by neighbors. It was our goal to design a facility that would enhance the area and include modern design features that would support the fire company's operations and community service programs. We are honored to have been selected for the Silver Award. We share this award with the Merrick community and the Merrick Hook and Ladder Co. No. 1's project team who we worked closely with during the entire design and construction process," said project architect Frank Relf.