Smíchov branch of Prague’s city library is housed in a Secession style market hall built at the beginning of the 20th century proposed by Alois Čenský. The ample three-part space with basilica-like lighting forms a unique setting, in which the library extends. The proposal for its refurbishment then respects this aspect and presents a new connection between the old and the new. The outcome is a compact whole, where the original space framed by an authentic steel construction retains its generosity, sincerity and pure beauty.
The newly inserted layer does not draw attention to itself, it is a kind of “underbrush” for a well-functioning unit in terms of aesthetics, but of course also operationally. In today’s accelerated times, even the library cannot avoid development. It is no longer just a “storehouse of books”. Its secondary functions are being strengthened to a much greater extent, namely as a meeting place, a place for study and free-time activities.
