Located in the village of Bünningstedt, the new volunteer fire station supports emergency services for around 9,400 residents in the Ammersbek area. Trapez was commissioned to replace an outdated facility with a modern, purpose-built station that reflects its rural setting and civic role.
Rooted in the regional context, the fire station takes its cues from the scale and language of nearby farmhouses and barns. The building is composed of distinct volumes with gabled roofs, echoing the rhythms of village architecture and breaking down the overall mass into familiar proportions. Positioned at the edge of the site, the two-story element anchors the building toward the street—establishing a clear public face while shielding the neighborhood from operational noise.
The vertical rhythm of the metal cladding gives the building a quiet sense of movement. Depending on the light, the surface shifts from a warm rose-gold shimmer to a muted reddish-brown—subtle variations that animate the façade throughout the day and with the seasons.
Inside, the building is designed for clarity, efficiency, and adaptability. It includes four vehicle bays, a training room, youth spaces, an emergency control center, and generous outdoor areas. Large portions of the plan are arranged for smooth circulation during emergency operations. The structure is also home to nearly 90 volunteer responders, supported by high-quality facilities that reflect their civic dedication.
From the administrative wing, large windows open outward toward the village—reinforcing the building’s connection to the community. It’s a place that is both operationally precise and openly welcoming. Its material expression may shift with the light, but the building itself remains a clear and steady presence – just like the volunteers who stand ready to lend a helping hand whenever their community needs them.
Photo Credits: Meike Hansen, archimage
