Sorg's concept for the new National Library of the Czech Republic was accepted into the second round of an international design competition among hundreds of entries from architects across the globe. The proposed 50,000 square meter library sits on a hilltop site overlooking the historic city core. Sorg's design responds to its functional programmatic requirements with two distinct forms: the library, a transparent, glass-sheathed, curved object; and the contrasting restricted access archive building, an angular, cantilevered form shaped to allow views of the library from the street. The buildings are connected above and below grade by pedestrian bridges. The design also incorporates sustainable strategies that are functional and aesthetic. The double glass cladding system on all walls as well as the roof provides a ventilated cavity that mediates climatic extremes, thus reducing the energy consumption of the building. In addition, the outer layer of roof glazing employs integral photo-voltaic solar cells and aluminum mesh to generate electricity and control solar gain.

Client: The City of Prague