The fire sprinkler system of the preferred embodiments is preferably installed in a space defined by two beams, such as rafters, extending along the width of a space and separated by a distance equal to a length of the space. The fire sprinkler system includes a supply line generally extending along the width of the space and generally located between the rafters, and a series of sprinklers connected to the supply line. Each sprinkler is adapted to disperse in a coverage area having a length and a width, which is substantially less than the length. Each sprinkler is oriented such that the length of each coverage area extends in opposite directions toward the rafters. The fire sprinkler system may also be installed in a space having a series of purlins extending the length of the space. In this variation, each sprinkler is located between two purlins.