The construction of the National Széchényi Library (OSZK) storage facility in Piliscsaba was a flagship cultural and engineering project delivered by WEST HUNGÁRIA BAU Ltd. The investment aimed to create a high-capacity, long-term document and book repository that fully meets the strict climatic, security, and preservation requirements of Hungary’s national library.
Key Data
Function: National library storage facility
Location: Piliscsaba
Total floor area: approximately 11,000 m²
Type of construction: General contracting
Implementation: Modern cultural and technical infrastructure
WHB Construction Scope
- Structural construction of a high-load capacity warehouse
Due to the strict preservation requirements, WHB carried out highly precise structural works.
Large-scale reinforced concrete load-bearing structures
Wide-span, column-free storage areas
High load-bearing slabs for mobile shelving systems
Precise geometric design to ensure sealed, climatically stable spaces
- Specialized preservation-focused mechanical systems
To ensure the long-term protection of books and archival materials, the building required highly complex mechanical solutions.
Humidity-controlled, temperature-stable storage areas with strictly monitored °C and relative humidity levels
High-performance, redundant HVAC systems
Fine-filtered air treatment to protect collections from dust and contaminants
Energy-efficient heating and cooling zones
Pressurized and compartmentalized spaces to prevent contamination, mould, and dust ingress
- Advanced security and fire protection systems
The facility is equipped with specialized library-grade security solutions.
Gas-based fire suppression system using collection-friendly technology
Camera surveillance and zone-based access control system
Integrated security monitoring system
Fire compartmentation using large-scale panel wall systems
- Interior layout with optimized archiving logic
WHB implemented an interior design focused on functionality and long-term operational efficiency.
Several thousand linear meters of document storage capacity
Flooring suitable for both mobile and fixed shelving systems
Heavy-duty logistics routes and industrial flooring
High-clearance storage spaces
Staff areas, offices, and digitization rooms
The overall interior design supports efficient and sustainable long-term operation.
- External works and site development
WHB completed the surrounding external infrastructure.
Parking areas
External utility connections
Delivery and logistics surfaces
Drainage system around the building
Special Construction Solutions
- Permanent climatic stability
The main challenge was ensuring long-term temperature and humidity stability, preventing paper deformation, mould formation, and physical deterioration. - Redundant mechanical systems
All key mechanical units are duplicated, ensuring continuous protection of the collection in case of any system failure. - High-load storage system requirements
Mobile shelving systems can impose point loads of up to 10 tons, which required reinforced slabs and industrial-grade flooring solutions. - Collection-safe fire suppression
Instead of water-based systems, a gas-based fire suppression solution was implemented to protect valuable cultural assets. - Precision air sealing and ventilation
Storage areas were constructed with full airtightness, verified through multiple testing phases to prevent external air infiltration.
Project Significance
The OSZK storage facility in Piliscsaba is one of Hungary’s largest cultural document storage facilities.
It enables the long-term preservation of millions of documents.
It supports the digitization and archival processes of the national library.
It showcases WHB’s expertise, where engineering precision is combined with cultural heritage protection.
The project represents a strategic milestone in the modernization of Hungary’s national cultural infrastructure.
