The rural barn, a quintessential element of the Czech landscape, has found a new purpose in Dolní Jirčany. SOA architekti has masterfully reinterpreted this traditional typology in their design for the village’s new fire station, creating a building that is both familiar and strikingly contemporary. Situated on a near-triangular plot between family homes and the SOA-designed Elementary School Amos, the fire station acts as a sensitive transition between residential and public spaces. Its form and scale respect the surrounding context, fulfilling both a functional and symbolic role within the village.
The design’s most striking feature is its clear visual connection to the local vernacular. The gabled roof and rectangular volume directly echo the agricultural buildings that dot the surrounding countryside, as well as establishing a visual dialogue with the adjacent school. This deliberate choice anchors the fire station within its setting, creating a sense of belonging and continuity. Located on municipal land in the northwestern development area of Dolní Jirčany, its position on the village outskirts offers firefighters rapid access to transport infrastructure, crucial for efficient emergency response.
SOA architekti’s design is driven by a clear understanding of functionality and operational efficiency. From the initial concept, the building is organized into three distinct thermal zones: exterior, garage, and interior. This strategic separation is not merely a technical consideration but an integral part of the architectural concept. The building’s structure is a steel hall enveloped in a translucent polycarbonate façade, creating a luminous connection between the interior and exterior while providing crucial protection for the firefighting vehicles. This translucent skin allows natural light to permeate the space, reducing energy consumption and creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow.
Within this protective shell, a “light” wooden structure is independently placed, forming the heart of the fire station. This wooden core provides comfortable and functional facilities for the firefighters, offering a warm and inviting counterpoint to the industrial nature of the garage. The use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) for the interior walls, both as exposed postcard panels and insulated, clad panels towards the garage, contributes to a healthy indoor environment and showcases the natural beauty of the material. The contrast between the light, transparent envelope and the solid, compact wooden interior creates a compelling visual and tactile experience.
A key element of the design is the deliberate placement of a large-format window on the eastern façade of the garage, facing the street. This “window to the operation” offers passers-by a glimpse into the daily life of the fire station and the dedicated work of the volunteer firefighters. It serves as a powerful reminder of their vital role within the community and fosters a sense of transparency and connection.
The building’s technical details further enhance its functionality and efficiency. The steel frame structure, with rectangular section trusses and columns, provides robust support. Ventilation is achieved through steel rods integrated into the structure. The polycarbonate façade is a multi-layered system comprising polycarbonate panels, an air cavity with embedded thermal insulation, and further polycarbonate panels. The roof utilizes sandwich polyurethane panels for optimal insulation, complemented by light panels above the garage and staircase. The interior staircase is crafted from bent teardrop sheet, while the external staircase, adjacent to the north elevation, is a galvanized structure with porosity landing and treads.
The Jirčany Fire Station is more than just a functional building; it is a testament to the power of thoughtful design to enhance community life. By reinterpreting traditional forms with contemporary materials and techniques, SOA architekti has created a space that is both practical and inspiring. It is a building that not only serves the needs of the volunteer fire department but also strengthens community cohesion and sets a strong foundation for the future development of Dolní Jirčany. This “modern barn” stands as a symbol of protection, community spirit, and architectural innovation.