The Hope Fire Station for Dnipro Ukraine

Project idea

Hope dances as an intangible force, weaving through the fabric of perseverance. Its essence, pure and elegant, ignites the dreams of individuals, kindling aspirations for a brighter tomorrow, not just for oneself, but for kin and comrades alike.

In 2018, Bahamian Artist Angelika Wallace-Whitfield orchestrated a symphony of hope, transcending the confines of galleries, embracing the streets, buildings, and signs, unfurling her vision across the expanse of The Bahamas, rendering hope tangible through vibrant tags and merchandise.

Amidst the turmoil of war in Ukraine, a similar refrain echoes in the Mariupol skyline, a solitary symbol - the "і" adorned with two proud dots, unique amidst linguistic kinship. For Ukrainians, it stands not just as a letter, but as a beacon of defiance, sovereignty, and identity, a testament to the resilience of hope in the face of adversity.

In the words of Angelika Wallace-Whitfield, "Hope, with human action behind it, becomes a weapon," resonating as a clarion call to wield hope as a transformative force, sculpting the landscape of possibility with each step towards a brighter future.

Project description

In this architectural composition, the undulating roofline gracefully mimics the fluidity of water, symbolizing the vital element firefighters harness in their endeavors. A profusion of glass adorns the frontal facade, serving as a conduit for natural light to permeate the interior, fostering an atmosphere of openness and vitality.

Amidst the structure's design, Lush greenery stretches out, intertwining with the architectural layout, providing sanctuaries for relaxation and rejuvenation, offering respite from the rigors of duty. The flat roofline pays homage to the surrounding architectural vernacular, seamlessly integrating the building into its urban environment while evoking a sense of continuity and harmony.

Technical information

The building envelope will be a mix of alucobond, faux wood cladding and plaster fixed to a metal framing system of columns, beams and joists. The combination of these elements and insulation will provide a comfortable thermal experience in severe weather conditions and also provide a variety of textures along the façade, thus creating visual interest. The flat roofs will be constructed in such a way to take advantage of water collection for reuse in greywater systems. While the wave roof is intended to be a prefabricated metal accent element.

Documentation

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