Design Challenge:

‍To design a fire-resistant Victorian-style train station that recaptures the charm and character of the original Grizzly Flats Train Depot, which was lost in the 2017 complex fires in Sonoma County.

Physical Context:

‍Set on a secluded residential property in Sonoma County, the site is a whimsical blend of natural beauty and nostalgic features, including a quarter-scale railroad and village, a classic car garage, and a train barn. This unique setting required a design that harmonized with its distinctive and storied surroundings.

Solution:

‍The new train station honors the original Grizzly Flats Train Depot, which had been reconstructed on this site in 2006. Reimagined with fire-resistant materials, the station features concrete block construction with stone cladding for durability and safety. The roof forms, exposed trusses, and intricate “painted lady” detailing bring the design to life, paying tribute to the history and charm of its predecessor while ensuring its legacy endures.

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