From 1994 to 2016, the Kuppel (Dome) in Basel wasn’t just a venue – it was a cultural icon. Housed in a quirky wooden structure originally built for a gardening show, the Kuppel became a beloved hotspot for music lovers, drawing both national and international acts to its stage. Though the building was only ever meant to be temporary, perched on public land with no long-term promise, it carved out a lasting place in the hearts of its visitors. When the city finally ordered its demolition, the public response was loud and clear: the Kuppel meant too much to too many. A trust committee was formed to preserve its legacy, and after eight years of anticipation, the dream was revived. The new Kuppel rose once again – a tribute to its legendary past and a fresh stage for the future. Headliner finds out how CODA Audio breathed new life into the much-loved music venue.
Architects Vécsey Schmidt designed the new venue and worked closely with the Basel office of global AV consultant, Walters-Storyk Design Group (WSDG), which was appointed as the project’s acoustic engineering specialist.
A high priority was placed on the total acoustic insulation of the venue owing to its location in a residential area. The collaboration between the architect and the acoustic specialist was a great success.
WSDG specified a CODA Audio system for the venue’s concert stage, which is located on the first floor beneath the dome after which the venue is named.