The Old Fire Station at Gipton in east Leeds had served the community for 75 years before being decommissioned when a new fire station was built in Killingbeck. Two locally based community organisations, GIPSIL and Zest Leeds approached Leeds Community Foundation (LCF) with an idea that the building could be converted into a Community and Enterprise Hub.
The building was transformed into a vibrant multipurpose hub of activity, with many of the original features – old pumps, the fireman’s poles, some flooring and tiles – being retained and New Vision was asked to come up with clear and informative signage that was mindful of the history of the building.
Our design studio produced eye-catching proposals with a nod to the former life of this very special building. For the outside, we suggested LED-illuminated letters and a bespoke logo. On the inside, locational and wayfinding signs were designed to clearly guide visitors and partners around the premises.
The Old Fire Station is now a space where people come to socialise, access support, or simply have fun. It offers opportunities for children and young people, as well as adults and older people, to maximise their potential, improve their sense of wellbeing and quality of life under one roof. The signage is stylish and sympathetic to the building’s appearance and history while maintaining a consistent, unified brand. At one time under threat of possible demolition, the building is an amazing venue where a wide range of different and complimentary not-for-profit tenant organisations can come together providing services, support, advice and information.