Fukuyama City, the capital of Fukuyama Prefecture in Japan, is where the Fukuyama Higashi Police Station (EK) site, an example of art and human-centeredness, is located. This police box, smartly placed at the entrance of Fukuyama Station, was able to take the first prize in a competition for remaking urban surveillance and connectivity in the streets of the capital. Transforming Fukuyama into a lofty complex of offices and hotels, we acknowledge that the role of the human-scale police force in filling that void, connecting residents and laws and order, becomes paramount.
Design Philosophy
At the core of this project lies a radical design philosophy aimed at revolutionizing the traditional perception of police boxes. Unlike their conventional counterparts, which often exude an aura of inaccessibility, the Fukuyama Higashi Police Station Ekimae KOBAN embraces the concept of a "friendly police box." Stone benches encircling the entrance welcome pedestrians, transforming the space into a haven of relaxation and community engagement. This approach fosters a sense of accessibility and safety, ensuring that the police box becomes an integral part of the urban fabric, accessible to all 24/7.
(Photo: Koichi Torimura)
Hybrid Design
The police box's design seamlessly integrates local symbols and materials in a nod to Fukuyama's rich cultural heritage. The building's silhouette mirrors the iconic "Tomo no ura" lighthouse, an emblematic landmark of Fukuyama City. Moreover, the utilization of titanium zinc steel panels pays homage to Fukuyama Castle, the only steel-clad castle in Japan. This hybrid design ethos not only honors the city's past but also paves the way for a new era of architectural identity.
Local Production and Revitalization
As a city synonymous with the steel industry, Fukuyama's essence permeates every aspect of the police box's design. Titanium zinc alloy panels, chosen for their durability and resistance to corrosion, serve as the building's primary material, reflecting the city's industrial prowess. Additionally, locally sourced Cedar wood adorns the interior walls, imbuing the space with warmth and character. By prioritizing materials from the region, the project contributes to the revitalization of local industries, fostering economic growth and sustainability.
Navigating the site's unique challenges, the design incorporates strategic elements to enhance safety and connectivity. A plaza in front of the police box connects to a new zebra crossing, ensuring pedestrians feel secure during nighttime strolls. Meanwhile, elevated windows in the office area strike a balance between transparency and security, allowing police officers to maintain vigilance while preserving privacy.
Structural Ingenuity
The police box's steel frame structure, clad in titanium zinc alloy panels, is a testament to structural innovation and resilience. This material choice ensures longevity in Fukuyama's corrosive environment and serves as an homage to the city's steel heritage. Internally, Cedarwood imparts a natural gradient to the walls, infusing the space with tranquility and harmony.
In essence, the Fukuyama Higashi Police Station Ekimae KOBAN transcends its functional purpose of becoming a symbol of community empowerment and architectural innovation. By reimagining traditional design paradigms and embracing local identity, this project sets a precedent for future urban developments, where safety, accessibility, and cultural heritage converge seamlessly.