The World’s 12 Most Beautifully Designed Fire Stations

What must an architect consider in a fire station design? They must be carefully designed with functionality and hyperefficiency in mind—after all, seconds count in an emergency. But while these may be the most important considerations, there’s no reason a fire station design can’t also be beautiful. Top architects, including Zaha Hadid and Jeanne Gang of Studio Gang, have applied their talents to fire stations around the world, creating buildings that contribute to the well-being of the firefighters and enrich the communities they serve. From a fire station design carved into the side of a mountain, to an icon of American postmodern architecture, find 12 of the world’s most beautiful fire stations here.