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Istanbul's Disaster Education Centre concept doubles as emergency housing

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05:39 December 6, 2011

The design resembles an emergency cross symbol that has fallen onto its side, as if affect...

The design resembles an emergency cross symbol that has fallen onto its side, as if affected by an earthquake (image: OODA)

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Portugal's OODA architectural firm has conceptualized a Disaster Education Centre that also doubles as an emergency shelter in the event of a real-life disaster. The center has been designed for the city of Istanbul and would be fully equipped with adequate technology and facilities to respond to a natural emergency. The center focuses on educating the public about disasters, with a special focus on earthquakes and floods. The design of the building reflects this theme, resembling an emergency cross symbol that has fallen onto its side, as if affected by an earthquake.

The exterior design of the building creates a striking landmark for the city of Istanbul. The fallen cross shape creates a large public outdoor space, which could host commercial shops and restaurants.

The structure's interior boasts a multi-level space that is connected through a central point. This design encourages the public to interact with the building, whilst also guiding visitors through the exhibition spaces and interactive activities on natural disasters. The OODA concept for the center includes an extensive research library, 4D cinema, planetarium, rainstorm simulation, conference halls and meeting rooms.

About the Author
Bridget Borgobello
Bridget Borgobello
Bridget is an experienced freelance writer, presenter and performer with a keen eye for innovative design and a passion for green technology. Australian born, Bridget currently resides in Rome and when not scribbling for Gizmag, she spends her time developing new web series content and independent cinema.

User Comments (5)
 

What a dumb idea for a building. I'm guessing too much Red Bull and video games.

I mean, a sign would give enough information for someone to determine that a particular place was the place to go for Disaster Education wouldn't it?

comment DemonDuck - December 6, 2011 @ 06:07 am PST

It's neat in an artistic sense, I guess. But it sends precisely the wrong signals to people looking for reassurance in the case of a disaster: "Move towards the tumbled-over building!"

comment Jon A. - December 6, 2011 @ 12:05 pm PST

@ Jon A:

My thought exactly.

From the article copy, it's clearly ironic.

comment yrag - December 6, 2011 @ 03:16 pm PST

And they ill build it without compliance like the rest of the dodgy buildings in Turkey..

comment Denis Klanac - December 6, 2011 @ 11:07 pm PST

"The design of the building reflects this theme, resembling an emergency cross symbol that has fallen onto its side, as if affected by an earthquake."

Let's go in this shelter. It's already pre-disastered!

comment Gregg Eshelman - December 7, 2011 @ 09:01 pm PST
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