Fire Station in the docklands

We took a conciliatory approach when designing a Fire Station in the desolate Antwerp docklands. The building is inspired by the wooden structures that once occupied the historic port. Small height differences between the building’s sections articulate the upstairs living spaces. These rooms, including sleeping quarters and a kitchen, are arranged around a patio. The cosiness of the penthouse, which is accessed via a generous staircase, is a welcome respite from the bleak surroundings. The offices and locker rooms function as a transition zone between the domestic and operational areas. Here, a visual relationship is established between the fire engines and the street. The wooden gunwale cladding accords with the industrial setting, while that of the penthouse has a more residential feel. The sports area with open trelliswork is a beacon that can be seen from the motorway.