CZECH NATIONAL LIBRARY
The open space between the park and urban development stands as the prominent feature in the western part of the Letná plain. It complements the significant buildings on the opposite side, forming what can be described as the "square of three phenomena" in Letná – politics represented by the Ministry of the Interior, sports with the AC Sparta Prague stadium, and culture embodied by the National Library.
The proposed building harmonizes with the nearby Letná orchards and embraces the green surroundings. Despite being an enclosed space, the library offers a connection to nature, providing a tranquil retreat amidst the city's hustle and bustle. It maintains a comfortable distance from the adjacent busy road, allowing for a grand approach to the building.
The building's mass is characterized by a simple and elemental prism design. At ground floor level, the surrounding space flows through the building, effectively dividing and lifting it. Access is possible from all sides, ensuring an equally welcoming appearance from every direction. The ground floor is distinct in color and shape, clearly marking the entrance area in contrast to the overall mass.
The building features two main spatial elements:
The primary spine is the atrium, accessible to the public. This free-flowing space extends from the ground floor through the entire publicly accessible interior. The continuous atrium guides visitors from the library entrance to various areas, including dedicated private study rooms on higher floors, offering panoramic views of Prague Castle. Additionally, the atrium bathes the interior in soft, pleasant light, creating a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by the adjacent park.
The secondary element is a cube-shaped storage facility for library resources, providing essential storage space.
| typology: | public building |
| floor area: | 55 000 m2 |
| project: | 2006 |
| construction: | - |
| address: | Milady Horákové, Prague |
| client: | public contest |
design team:
Ing. arch. Lucie Fousková
Ing. arch. Jan Fousek
Ing. arch. Daniel Pexa
Ing. Vladimír Vančík
F2 Architekti a Partneři, a.s.
Ing. Kateřina Hroncová
Ing. arch. Zuzana Nacházelová
Ing. arch. Tomáš Martínek
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