OC Máj - Protecting the Spitfire Butterflies in Prague

Together with our Czech partner, BREMA spol s. r.o., VID FIREKILL has delivered fire protection for the iconic facade of the OC Máj department store in Prague, Czech Republic.
BREMA spol s r.o. is a leading construction company based in the Czech Republic. Their Firefighting department specializes in designing and implementing advanced fire suppression systems.
The OC Máj is the largest department store in the heart of Prague, located in the Old Town district. It’s surrounded by historical landmarks and art, making it a mix of modern shopping and the city’s rich cultural vibe.
Brema spol s. r.o. was selected in a tender to install a fire protection system for the facade of OC Máj that features two giant butterfly sculptures. These 14-meter-tall eye-catching pieces, created by artist David Černý, also known as the Spitfire Butterflies, were specially designed for the building and have movable wings that create the illusion of real butterflies resting on the wall. The bodies of the butterflies are made from the fuselage of Spitfire aircraft, serving as a tribute to the Czech pilots who fought in the British Royal Air Force during World War II.

Prague

The OC Máj

VID Firekill fire protecting the OC Máj

The challenges

Local fire authorities raised concerns about the butterfly wings, which are made of plastic. They were particularly worried about the potential fire risk posed by the material, as it could contribute to the rapid spread of flames along the facade if a blaze ignited, especially from the machinery associated with the artwork. To meet this challenge, an Atrium protection system was selected for the protection of the highest part of the wings, and a facade system was chosen for the lower part of the façade to create a complete coverage solution.

VID FIREKILL supplied one pump set along with two deluge valves of type C-EL-50, and 60 APS nozzles.
The water tanks used for this system are shared with the building's sprinkler pumps.
VID Firekill fire protecting the OC Máj
Mechanical butterfly Prague
VID FIREKILL fire protection