KREIS WARENDORF

New Civil Protection Center

A protective embrace in times of crisis!

With its welcoming gesture, the new building serves as a refuge for disaster-affected individuals and visitors, conveying a sense of retreat and security. The interplay between the elliptical form and linear elements evokes associations of structural stability, while the choice of materials, textures and colours creates a feeling of a gentle and warm embrace. The atmosphere of the building is designed to improve individuals' sense of security in turbulent and stressful times and to give them reassurance and peace. The direct view of the surroundings creates a connection to the outside world and a greater sense of identification with the place.

The elliptical structure stands slightly rotated on the building site and clearly stands out from the existing buildings thanks to its geometry and materiality. This design ensures clear orientation and a high recognition value as the new entrance to Warendorf.

The heart of the building is the hall. The corridor, from which the service rooms can be accessed, is oriented around it. The smaller foyer adjoins the northern forecourt and serves as an internal distribution point for the surrounding corridor, the adjoining rooms and the hall. Towards the southern square, the outer space is opened up and offers a connection to the forecourt via a glazed façade and integrated gates directly from the hall. The adjoining outdoor area is covered and forms a large outdoor plaza. This area, which is protected from the weather, serves as a place for people to linger and communicate.