Fire Station – Zlatar

The Fire Station in Zlatar is conceived as a contemporary public building that, through clear design, legible organization, and a strong volumetric presence, responds to the operational requirements and community role of the fire service.

Architectural concept and spatial organization

The Fire Station in Zlatar is designed as a rectangular, two-storey building with a clear and rational spatial organization. The building is functionally divided into two main parts: the eastern administrative wing and the western operational wing, housing garages for fire trucks, educational spaces, and a multipurpose hall. This division ensures logical building operations and a clear separation between everyday operational activities and administrative or community functions. The spatial concept emphasizes legibility and efficiency of movement, with clearly defined entrances and circulation paths that respond to the specific requirements of fire service operations.

Tower as a vertical and identity element

Between the two main volumes is a tower over 20 meters high, serving both functional and symbolic purposes. The tower is used for firefighter training, drills, and equipment maintenance, while simultaneously acting as a strong vertical accent in the overall composition. Its height and positioning create a clear counterpoint to the horizontally extended wings of the building, making it a recognizable landmark and a visual sign of the building’s public function. The architectural articulation of the tower emphasizes its utilitarian purpose while strengthening the fire station’s identity as key local infrastructure.

Volume articulation and roofline

The architectural expression of the fire station is based on simple, clear forms that reflect its functional character. The varying floor heights and carefully shaped volumes create a dynamic composition while maintaining a balanced and restrained appearance. A gently sloped single-pitch roof further emphasizes the linear character of the building and contributes to a coherent silhouette. The roofline logically follows the internal organization of spaces while providing a modern, unobtrusive appearance appropriate for a public facility.

Interior-exterior relationship

Large garage openings, clearly defined entrances, and covered terraces on the southern side of the building ensure a strong connection between the interior spaces and the surrounding environment. The terraces are directly linked to the multipurpose hall, offices, and supporting spaces, extending the functionality of the building and allowing flexible use for different activities. In this way, the fire station functions not only as operational infrastructure but also as a place for community gatherings, education, and civic engagement, well-integrated into the town of Zlatar and serving the needs of its residents.