The building has an open center, cut sectionally through it to visually connect the second floor training, technical and office functions to each other and to the apparatus floor below. The opening extends up through the roof via a large tapered light well overlaid with a skylight that allows changing daylight conditions to be registered in the surrounding spaces, which are also cross-ventilated with triple-panel operable windows. Sunlight filters down to the first floor apparatus area around an open, sculptural steel stair that welcomes staff & visitors up to the upper level, promoting active design, providing clear wayfinding, and creating a sense of community.

The second floor programs are wrapped by a folded-plate aluminum facade that, separated by a continuous ribbon of clerestory glazing, visually hovers above the cast-in-place concrete base. The facade and roof are raised on the east and slope down to the west, concealing roof-top energy-efficient mechanical units and photo-voltaic panels. These panels cantilever beyond the building base on the west side to protect an exterior egress stair. The concrete ground floor walls are panelized with randomized vertically staggered formwork and are resilient, featuring vents that allow flood waters to flow in and out without damaging the building.