Hai Hai Fire Station, Waiakea, South Hilo, Hawaii

Capturing idyllic Hilo in a beloved fire station.



The 13,681-square-foot fire station accommodates up to 30 rooms, including living quarters, offices, work rooms, classrooms, bathrooms, showers, an exercise room, locker rooms, kitchen, storage room, apparatus bay, and hose tower.

The design reflects Hilo’s local architectural flair, featuring an intricate combination of several shed roofs, metal roofing, and a series of clerestories.

The building form supports environmental considerations by maximizing photovoltaic (PV) exposure and daylight. The project underwent energy modeling and analysis to ensure adequate shading and ventilation for a comfortable interior temperature.

Special attention was given to minimize grading impact and to implement onsite stormwater treatment and dispersion. The station is also equipped with a 100kW roof-mounted PV system to help offset its electrical needs.