SFO Crash House & Fire Station #2

The “Crash House” at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a specialized public safety building designed to support rapid airfield emergency response. Primarily a fire station with apparatus bays and living quarters, its proximity to the runway required unique design measures, including advanced soundproofing to mitigate aircraft noise, taller bays for oversized response vehicles, reinforced fenestration to withstand jet blast, and a dispatch room offering panoramic airfield views. Even the glazing was angled to reduce glare and reflections, enhancing safety and visibility.

Given its visibility from passenger terminals, the building’s appearance was an important design consideration from the outset. Robin Chiang & Company (RCCo) collaborated closely with firefighters and airport staff to create an efficient, durable, and adaptable facility. The resulting design was so well received that it became the prototype for three subsequent public safety buildings at SFO.