Have you ever been to the National Technical Library in Prague? If not, make sure to stop by next time you’re in the city – it’s well worth a visit.
Architecture that Stands Out
The National Technical Library in Prague is more than a place for study – it is a statement of modern architecture, innovative design, and smart engineering. With its unusual rounded square footprint of 75×75 meters, it clearly sets itself apart from conventional library buildings.
The structure spans six above-ground and three underground floors, covering a total of around 46,700 square meters. The underground levels house a parking garage and an archive. The ground and first floors are public areas, featuring a cafeteria, auditorium, exhibition spaces, a bookshop, and a communication zone for visitors. From the second floor upwards, the building becomes a dedicated reading and research area.
Design that Surprises
Designed by the architectural firm Projektil Architekti, the building impresses not only with its form and function but also with its unique interior design. One of the standout features is the colored flooring, spanning from the second to the sixth floor. In blue, yellow, red, orange, and green, the colors visually trace the ceiling’s structural force lines into the floor – combining aesthetics with subtle structural storytelling.
Another highlight: graffiti-style comic illustrations in the central atrium, which spans all six floors. These were created by Romanian artist Dan Perjovschi, who used a felt-tip pen to draw his bold, minimal illustrations directly onto the exposed concrete walls and pillars. His work reflects themes ranging from science and society to politics – turning the library into an inspiring space of visual commentary.
Fire Protection as a Design Feature
Amidst this impressive architectural and artistic environment is the FOGTEC fire protection system.
The city of Prague decided to protect the entire building with a high-pressure water mist system, combined with FOGGUN water mist hose reel cabinets for manual firefighting at strategic points. Together, they provide optimal protection across the facility. What makes it unique: the system is not hidden. It is a visible and intentional part of the design concept. With its slim stainless-steel pipes, it has been purposely integrated into the building’s visible infrastructure.
Reliable for Nearly Two Decades
For nearly 20 years, the FOGTEC system has contributed to the distinctive appearance of the National Technical Library – all while delivering high availability and long-term reliability with minimal maintenance.
So, next time you visit, see if you can spot our small nozzles.
