Sweet Sparkman designed a new fire station and completed renovations and expansions for the adjacent City Hall in Venice, Florida. The state-of-the-art Fire Station #1 replaces a 60-year-old facility on the same site, blending modern functionality with historical sensitivity. Located in Venice’s Historic Overlay District, the project drew inspiration from John Nolen’s 1926 city plans, ensuring the design respects the community’s architectural heritage. The two-story station includes three drive-through apparatus bays, ground-floor support spaces such as dining and fitness areas, and upper-level bunk rooms to optimize rest for firefighters. Shared parking accommodates both City Hall and the Fire Department, balancing operational needs with public accessibility.
The City Hall renovation expanded the building department and updated offices for key governmental departments, including Engineering, Purchasing, IT, and the Clerk’s office. These improvements enhance the functionality and efficiency of municipal operations while maintaining harmony with the surrounding historic context. Together, the Fire Station and City Hall projects exemplify a thoughtful approach to integrating modern facilities within a historic coastal community.