The Worlds Longest drop Concertina Fire Curtain installed in Tallinn, Estonia protectING a glass lift running through the church tower.
About the Building
Nestled in the heart of Tallinn, Niguliste Church, also known as St. Nicholas’ Church, bears witness to centuries of history. Consecrated to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of merchants and seafarers, this medieval marvel was founded in the mid-13th century. Once among the wealthiest churches in Tallinn, it played a pivotal role in the town’s cultural and religious landscape.
However, the church faced its share of challenges during World War II, sustaining damages that led to its restoration. The Niguliste Museum, housed within the church since its opening in 1984, now holds an unparalleled collection of medieval and early modern ecclesiastical art. These precious artefacts, originating from the church itself, narrate a compelling story of Estonia’s cultural heritage.
Why were Fire Curtains Used?
A key of the church’s permanent exhibition is a glass lift that ascends through the church tower. This allows visitors to embark on a historical journey, offering breathtaking views of the ancient church and its priceless artworks. However, realising this vision posed a challenge – fire safety. While insulated glass was an option, concerns about cost and potential distortion of views due to its thickness arose. Coopers Fire have worked extensively with architects globally in the world’s most visited museums to provide fire protection for both visitors and the exhibits within from Natural History Museum to The British Museum, architects rely on Coopers Fire experience in working sympathetically in Historic Buildings.
Benefits of Fire/Smoke Curtains
Enter the FireMaster Concertina “Closed” Fire Curtain curtain – a solution that seamlessly blends fire safety with aesthetic preservation. Three curtains in total with varying drops of 3m, 9.8m, and an impressive 15.5m (the longest Concertina drop globally), these curtains not only meet the fire risk requirements but also ensure an unobstructed visual experience for visitors. The project architects, KOKO architects, exemplified a harmonious convergence of safety measures and architectural elegance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Niguliste Church project stands as a beacon of innovation in preserving historical charm while integrating state-of-the-art fire safety measures. The FireMaster Concertina “Closed” Fire Curtain not only shield this cultural gem but also invite visitors to traverse time and history within the confines of a glass lift, ensuring an enriching experience that marries heritage with modernity.
