Design 101: How to Design Buildings to Prevent Terrorism

Feb 14, 2020 | view 4,835

The world is becoming a difficult place to live. This statement is no longer an exaggeration, as we are constantly hearing bad news about crime and terrorism, especially in significant locations such as shopping malls or schools. Today, Terrabkk would like to introduce a model of innovative building design that enhances the potential of buildings to prevent terrorism that could occur at any time.

Source: www.dezeen.com

The American company Pinkster Tower has designed Fruitport High School in Michigan, focusing on everything from the building's form to the details of door locks, aiming to limit the effectiveness of firearms to reduce casualties in the event of an attack.

The concept behind Pinkster Tower for this project arose from the violence in American schools, including shootings at elementary schools over the years, such as the Sandy Hook incident in Connecticut, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High in Parkland, and Santa Fe High School in Texas.

Source: www.dezeen.com

Fruitport High School is currently under construction, with the interior space being divided by fire doors that can be closed with the push of a button in the event of an attack, sealing off areas and separating attackers from students.

The front of the school features a curved design with large windows to provide a clear line of sight from the reception area, allowing visibility of the school entrance. The interior hallways are designed to be curved to obstruct the view of potential attackers, while concrete wing walls are strategically placed to serve as barriers for attackers and provide shelter for students to hide behind.

Source: www.dezeen.com

Inside the classrooms, there will be safe spaces for both teachers and students, capable of sheltering about 33 people. Classroom doors will be equipped with internal locks for added security, and the windows in the school will also be bullet-resistant. The school has also redesigned its storage cabinets to be lower than before and placed them in areas with clear visibility, allowing teachers to keep an eye on students effectively.

Source: www.dezeen.com

Pinkster Tower has also joined the National Crime Prevention Institute, which provides training in various aspects of safety. They are participating in a program focused on crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) specifically for schools. This training program certifies staff on how to enhance safety in schools.

Source: www.dezeen.com

Additionally, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) has revealed a plan called "the power of design" to enhance safety in schools across the United States and create a supportive environment for children. However, the AIA has not yet concluded which specific designs can truly ensure safety. Nevertheless, several private companies have successfully created prototype schools that serve as examples of effective design, such as Brooks + Scarpa, a renowned design firm that has designed a school in one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Los Angeles, with the concept of the school being "visually open but entirely secured."

Animo South Los Angeles Charter High School Los Angeles, CA