Atlanta Firehouse Gets an Extremely Deserving Makeover

Upon stopping by local Atlanta Fire Station #17 earlier this year, Michelle Moore couldn’t help but notice that the living areas were run down—old, worn floors; outdated, stained furniture and appliances; and a stove that looked like it’d fought a few fires itself.

Moore, the cousin of a firefighter and a Czarnowski employee, immediately thought of client Electrolux, who partnered last year with the Dennis Leary Firefighters Foundation to supply new appliances to New Orleans fire stations damaged by Hurricane Katrina. Inspired by what Electrolux did in New Orleans, she brought the idea of refurbishing the firehouse to Jim Milanowski, General Manager of Czarnowski’s Atlanta operation.

Milanowski applauded and supported the idea immediately. “It just made sense to help,” says Milanowski. “We all know that firefighters are heroes, and as members of the community they serve, we want them to have a comfortable, positive environment.” Add the fact that Fire Station #17 is less than a mile from Czarnowski’s Atlanta facility, and very quickly it was clear that helping renovate it was the right thing to do.

Atlanta team members set to work over a three-week period, replacing ceiling tiles and flooring; installing new appliances; and building furniture and cabinetry. The walls received fresh coats of paint in bright, warm colors. “It was a great way for all of us to show our appreciation for what the firemen and women do for us—and to give back to the community in a way that is in line with our expertise—designing, building, rebuilding and decorating,” says Moore.