Custom Perforated Metal Panels for Killeen Fire Station
Client: Cerris Builders
Project: Killeen #4 Fire Station
Architect: Martinez Architecture
Location: Killeen, TX
Product: Altair Perforated Panels and Galaxy Guardrails
The Challenge: Uniting four functions through one design
The Killen Fire Station is a new, state-of-the-art facility. It spans nearly 15 acres and 41,000 square feet across two buildings. The complex serves multiple functions. It houses the fire station, a training academy, an emergency operations center, and a support hub for vehicle maintenance. Fire Chief James Kobinski called the project a “necessity.” He stated it combined “4 different needs and built it into one complex.”
The architectural vision required a modern facade. This striking design incorporated perforated metal panels. The primary challenge was the design’s complexity. Custom fabrication was needed to create letters and numbers as negative space within the panels.
This intricate design had to be unified. The exterior was set in red, and the interior in black. All materials had to meet specific AAMA 2604 color and finish standards. Further requirements included bird repellent spikes on top of all exterior panels. A unique halo lighting effect was also necessary behind the letter design.
The Solution: Custom Perforated MEtal Panels and Integrated Lighting
To meet the complex requirements, the panels were crafted from 5052 aluminum. They received a durable AAMA 2604 coating in RAL 3002 Carmine Red paint.
The design featured StellarCraft’s custom windmill perforated pattern. This provided a 31.1% open area. Precision fabrication was key to the solution. It involved creating negative spaces for the facility’s letters and numbers. This required meticulous cutting. A pre-finished off-white trim was applied around the interior cuts.
Strip lighting was installed behind this trim to achieve the halo effect. The Altair panels were fastened to a formed angle frame. They used self-drilling undercut screws.
To protect the investment, bird repellent spikes were added along the panel system’s top length. These spikes were painted to match the perforated finish. The interior lobby stairs extended the exterior design seamlessly. Black perforated StellarCraft guardrails matched the exterior pattern. These were complemented by black posts, stringers, and a handrail.
The Result: A pillar of community identitiy
The new Killeen Fire Station is more than a modern, state-of-the-art facility. It brings together the people, resources, and services the community depends on all in one place. With space for training, emergency operations, and vehicle maintenance, the new complex gives the Killeen Fire Department the room and resources it needs to better serve the community for years to come.
The building’s bold design also gives the department a strong presence in the community. The combination of perforated panels, custom lettering, and halo lighting creates a recognizable identity that reflects the important work happening inside.
We’re proud of the role StellarCraft played in bringing this vision to life. From the exterior facade to the matching interior guardrails, we enjoyed being part of a project that will have a lasting impact on the Killeen community and the people who rely on this facility every day.
