Culture, Education and Leisure

Visitor Centre KRNAP

Czech RepublicContractors: Fialkovsky s.r.o.

Visitor Centre KRNAP - Gypsum International Trophy 2025

Project description

The reconstruction revitalized the original museum space and transformed it into a modern visitor center of the Krkonoše National Park. It has created an engaging way to explore the story of the Krkonoše mountains’ nature and the people living in this unique region. A notable highlight of the project is the compelling contrast between the sleek, contemporary drywall installations and the historic, heritage-protected features of the former monastery. The inventive ceiling designs and the thoughtfully integrated lighting solutions further contribute to the atmosphere of the space.

Main information

Building size

3 000 m²

Building purpose / type

Museum and
visitor centre

Building owner name

KRNAP
management

Architect name

prof. Ing. arch.
Roman Koucký,
Šárka Malá

Contractors

Fialkovsky s.r.o.

Company name: Fialkovsky s.r.o.

Main Representative: Andriy Fialkovsky

Number of collaborators: 20

Specialties: Construction and demolition of buildings, Reconstructions and repairs of cultural and public buildings, Innovative design utilising bent walls

Founded in: 2007

Biography: Fialkovsky s.r.o., based in Prague, is a construction company established in 2007 specializing in drywall and interior systems. The company is renowned for its expertise in implementing innovative plasterboard solutions for complex architectural projects. Key achievements include the Visitor Center for Krkonoše National Park, featuring advanced ceiling and wall systems, and the Museum of Southeast Moravia, where curved Glasroc F Riflex boards created seamless, dynamic interiors. Fialkovsky s.r.o. is recognized for its technical precision, use of cutting-edge materials, and commitment to delivering high-quality results across diverse construction and renovation projects.

Key Challenges

The reconstruction of this historic building, protected as a national heritage site, posed unique challenges.
High-quality surfaces were essential, as flat light from modern light bars highlighted every detail.
The contrast between the modern dry construction interiors and the building’s original façade demanded careful planning.
Humidity-resistant materials were vital due to open water systems within the exhibition spaces and the naturally high moisture levels in the cellar.
Additionally, the team addressed complex issues such as managing a radioactive particle discovered during the project.
This meticulous approach ensured the successful modernization of a treasured historical structure.

Key Achievements

The reconstruction of the KRNAP Visitor Centre in Vrchlabí successfully merged heritage preservation with modern functionality.
The project retained the architectural integrity of the former Augustinian monastery, a protected cultural site, while addressing challenges like persistent cellar humidity with advanced drainage systems.
A new sewage system enhanced infrastructure, and wheelchair-accessible exhibitions ensured inclusivity.
The upgraded displays harmonize modern design with historical elements, effectively showcasing Krkonoše’s natural and cultural heritage.
Prefabricated plasterboard elements produced by Ekomont spol. s r.o. using advanced CNC machines elevated the design of the museum’s exhibitions. These components enabled fast and efficient construction, reducing costs and promoting a more environmentally friendly production and on-site assembly process.

Sustainability in the project

The KRNAP Visitor Center reconstruction balances sustainability and modern functionality. Key upgrades include wheelchair-accessible expositions, a new sewage system, and effective moisture drainage from the cellar to protect structural integrity. Eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and renewable energy sources minimize the environmental footprint.
The project also integrates sustainable tourism principles, combining infrastructure improvements with heritage conservation. This approach aligns with efforts to promote responsible tourism while preserving Krkonoše National Park’s unique ecosystems.

Saint-Gobain products & systems

Gypsum board Glasroc H

Wall coverings and partitions in spaces with open water system

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RB (A)

front walls and design ceilings

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Joint filler Rifino Top

Bent design front walls

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Habito® H

Front walls in exhibitions, special prefabricated elements

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Benefits

Moisture resistance

Gypsum board Glasroc H

Interior Walls

Plasteboard RB (A)

Smooth manual finish

Joint filler Rifino Top

Owner’s testimonial

KRNAP management

This is undoubtedly one of the most modern museum exhibitions in Central Europe. It is a “living” exhibition, designed to be updated and expanded over time. It is also the largest exhibition about the Krkonoše region, offering a comprehensive story of the mountains—from the formation of the first rocks to the present day.

Saint-Gobain project manager’s testimonial

Lukáš Bach

It was a complex project in terms of both structural and design execution. The contractor had to address requirements for aesthetics as well as technical implementation, including the integration of technologies. As needed, systems with mechanical durability and strength were used (such as partitions with Habito boards), along with Glasroc H constructions in areas with increased humidity, such as spaces with open water surfaces.

Saint-Gobain Team

Lukáš Bach

Photographer’s name

Jan Kroupa, Ekomont

Website

COUNTRY WEBSITE