Superhero Manifesto

Important Features in Superhero Headquarters

The comic book precedent has shown that there are certain elements common and essential for any superhero headquarters. Although many times these are fantastic fictional features, they are grounded in some reality and the basic idea is not too far-fetched from reality. I have attempted to highlight these and explain how they are attainable to real life superheroes in this section. This list is not exhaustive and in fact this version excludes some features highlighted in the initial Superhero Manifesto and there are many details such as security systems, lighting etc. that I chose not to add. Also, keep in mind that in many cases these features can be combined such as the medical and science labs.

The Big Monitor Screen

This is a staple of fictional superhero headquarters. In the classic scenario the Army general might appear to tell the Avengers that the Hulk was smashing downtown and help was needed. In the real world, this would be a video monitor screen observing traffic cameras, newscasts and other items available online. It could also serve as a video conferencing monitor.

Communications Center

This too is pretty important as it fills a vital aspect of the headquarters. From here a team coordinates it’s actions, plans and missions and is a place to receive emergency calls or leave messages. All a real world communications center would need is a telephone, CB radio, police scanner, and computer. To top it off it could include the first feature, the Big Screen Monitor.

The Big Meeting Table

Since the purpose of the head-quarters is to serve as a team meeting place, this might be the most important feature. A focal point of any headquarters, this would be the location for meetings and discussions.

Science/ Crime Lab

This is crucial to superheroes and teams in comic books and Batman for example can afford to spend money on advanced equipment. Because we are talking about the real world however our team would look at having perhaps an electron microscope, computer for research and library on hand.

 

Bathroom

This does not get much scrutiny in the comics so there is not much precedent but is a necessity. Ideally, it should be as hygienic and modern as possible, perhaps with motion activated shower, toilet and sink.

Sparring Room/Exercise Room

Unfortunately, hi-tech holographic technology like the X-Men use is unattainable but you can prepare a simple mat and sparring gear and equipment for your team. If you are the Avengers you can afford a state-of-the-art fitness center, but in your more realistic version you can easily have a set of weights, treadmill and other exercise equipment, Getting these items does not pose a large problem for real life superheroes.

Medical Facility

The Justice League has to care for their own members when injured in battle but in real life emergencies and health problems should be taken care of by emergency room and health professionals. Still, it’s handy for any superhero or team to have handy first aid equipment in case of slight injuries and for triage purposes.

Bedrooms

In the event that your team’s headquarters doubles as living quarters this is necessary. Even if people are not residing there it might be handy to have a spare place for people to sleep in between fighting evil and if they are monitoring events overnight. This can be set up dormitory style with bunkbed or each member can have their own space depending on space and how each team is set up.

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