Guernsey Wins 2nd Interior Design Award - Newcastle Fire Station No. 1

We are thrilled to share that Newcastle Fire Station No. 1 has received its second major design accolade, solidifying its place as a standout example of thoughtful, community-focused interior design. Guernsey was recently honored with the 2025 Best in Show award by the Oklahoma Interior Design Coalition (OIDC). The Best in Show award is the highest distinction granted in the organization's annual celebration of design excellence. 
This award follows our earlier recognition by the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) Texas-Oklahoma Chapter, where the project was named Best of City Center-OKC in its Design Excellence Awards. Receiving both honors underscores our holistic design approach by creating civic buildings that not only serve their functional purpose but also prioritize the health and wellbeing of the people who use them every day.

A Fire Station Designed for the Future

Newcastle, a rapidly growing suburb of the Oklahoma City metro area, has experienced a 33% population increase since the last census. To meet the evolving needs of this thriving community, the City of Newcastle sought a facility that would ensure its firefighters' safety, health, and efficiency while expanding service capacity for the region. The result is a 19,000-square-foot fire station designed to support those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.

Understanding that fire stations serve as workplaces and living quarters, we designed Newcastle Fire Station No. 1 to provide a comfortable, functional, and efficient environment. At the heart of the facility are the living quarters, which include ten private sleeping rooms, individual shower spaces, a fitness room, and a communal kitchen and dining area. The design fosters camaraderie among firefighters while offering personal spaces for rest and recovery between shifts.

Beyond the living areas, the station incorporates features that enhance operational readiness and firefighter safety. The four-bay drive-thru apparatus area has state-of-the-art air purification systems, an SCBA room, decontamination spaces, and a storm shelter. A 30-seat training room and study space facilitate continuous learning and collaboration, allowing Newcastle firefighters—and visiting departments—to enhance their skills and improve response strategies.

More than just a fire station, this facility is a testament to the City of Newcastle's investment in public safety. The thoughtful design ensures firefighters have the resources to serve their community effectively while providing a welcoming environment for training and regional cooperation.

City Manager Kevin Self noted, "Guernsey has, at all times, been responsive, mindful of costs, and addressed any obstacle or issue with sound judgment and advice. They have proven time and time again an ability to work with all staff to resolve or eliminate problems, and I consider them a vital part of the success of our projects."

We are honored to receive this recognition from both the OIDC and the IIDA Texas Oklahoma Chapter and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to Newcastle's public safety infrastructure. This project exemplifies our dedication to designing spaces that enhance the quality of life for those who serve our communities.

Congratulations to the City of Newcastle and thank you to both award organizations for these honors!