Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia
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Under the guidance of senior lecturer Sergei Ivanovich Chertkov, third-year RUDN University students, future architects, visited a functioning fire station. The tour became a key step in their work on their student projects for a modern fire station, allowing the future architects to combine theoretical knowledge with the real-world requirements of the facility.
Immersion in the profession
The field trip was part of the "Architectural Design" course. For the students, it was more than just a tour; it was an immersion into the profession and the specifics of the building being designed. The students saw from the inside what they had previously only read about in regulations and textbooks: garage logistics and rapid access routes, equipment storage, and the layout of work and living areas—from the training tower to the firefighters' break room. They also examined design solutions for high-speed descents, gates, and interior finishing with high-demand environments. Furthermore, the students asked the firefighters what they would change in the layout, which spaces they consider most important, and what helps or hinders their daily work.
Group leader Nina Popazova shared her impressions of what she saw.
"I was amazed by the depot's smooth and efficient operation. Every step—from equipment storage to dispatch logistics—was organized with maximum efficiency to minimize response time," says Nina Popazova.
The most challenging design, she says, was the fire engine garage and its on-site logistics. It was necessary to consider not only the convenience and speed of dispatch, but also the safety of traffic within the premises and ease of access to equipment. The main conclusion she drew from her discussions with the firefighters was the understanding that ergonomics and functionality of the spaces are key.
"It's crucial to properly design rest areas, changing rooms, and equipment storage areas so firefighters can quickly and comfortably prepare for deployment," says Nina Popazova.
Following the tour, changes were made to the project concept.
"New ideas emerged for optimizing equipment transfer and the layout of utility rooms. Some initial solutions had to be revised to make the project more closely reflect real-life working conditions," says Nina Popazova.
According to the student, visiting the depot helped her better understand the real requirements and needs of firefighters, making the project more thoughtful and practical. "Immersion in reality showed that theory and practice are two different things, and it's important to consider the details you only see on-site," says Nina Popazova.
A teacher's perspective
Senior lecturer Sergei Ivanovich Chertkov explained why the fire station theme was chosen for the academic project.
"The fire station project is relevant for today's times. The typology of such buildings incorporates a complex functional design. The structure offers a figurative solution and emphasizes the honor and masculinity of the Ministry of Emergency Situations," says Sergei Chertkov.
Before the excursion, the teacher set specific tasks for the students.
"These include practical familiarization with the conditions and specifics of the Ministry of Emergency Situations' technology, communication with firefighters, and reflection on one's creative ideas for immediate implementation," says Sergei Chertkov.
In his opinion, after the trip, work on projects reached a new level.
"The students developed a realistic approach to reality and a sense of belonging. Their projects were submitted and passed in the first module of the fifth semester," said Sergey Chertkov.
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