Guizhou architects win thumbs up from Germany

Chetian Cultural Center is not the only excellent work of West-line Studio. Their other project, a fire station in Gui'an New Area, won the Winner Award of 2018 German Design Award as well. Unlike the localization of Chetian Cultural Center, the fire station is a demonstration of the modern design concepts. "The two building represent different directions of our studio," said Wei.

The main color of the fire station is red, forming sharp contrast with the green mountains. "The building needs to catch people's attention because of its function," said Xie.

The building was built following the mountain. Few elements emerge from the slope: the training tower on the north and the white central hall. Levels are connected by outdoor corridors and equipped with recreational areas, reading rooms and sport equipment to encourage socialization.

The fire station is a conspicuous landmark in Gui'an New Area, Guizhou province. [Photo by Liu Tingting/gzdsw.com]