This week will be the official opening of Subterra, a new music studio complex located in a former nuclear bunker. Subterra offers studios ranging from 11 to 37 square metres. The underground location on level -2 provides a distraction-free environment ideal for different styles of music production. The aim is to bring together a wide range of ambitious music professionals. By offering high-quality facilities, Subterra encourages collaboration and exchange between artists. The goal is to keep music development in motion and to nurture musical ambition in the city.
Unique studio location
One of the most notable additions to the space is Goldband, the renowned Dutch music group known for many hits and innovative approach to music production. Goldband is planning to produce from this unique location. Band member Boaz Kok has expressed his excitement, calling the bunker a "magical breeding ground" for music.
Music meets history
The bunker dates back to the Cold War era and was built as an emergency command centre in the event of a national crisis. Since 2013, the 2000-square-metre space had stood empty. After fourteen months of renovation, the recording studios and rehearsal rooms are now fully in use. All studios have been rented out, and there is even a waiting list. With this, Subterra has become a unique place where history and contemporary culture come together.
Former dormitories and infirmary rooms
The studios have been created within the former dormitories and infirmary rooms of the bunker. Original elements, such as the steel doors and thick walls, have been preserved. Subterra offers musicians a permanent workplace they can truly make their own. In addition, it serves as a cultural meeting place where creators inspire others and where new collaborations emerge. The music studio is based near The Hague Central Station, at the Schedeldoekshaven under the former Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Local creatives bring Subterra to life
Subterra was realised by a collective of makers and entrepreneurs from The Hague: Joris Hoefnagel, Benjamin Havenaar, Lounes Doulache, Stefan Hagesteijn and Marieke McKenna. The rehearsal rooms are managed by the Noodzetel Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting The Hague’s musicians and encouraging cultural entrepreneurship.
The Hague's music industry
The Hague has a rich musical heritage and is home to globally renowned artists and bands such as Golden Earring, known for their hit Radar Love, Goldband, Anouk, Kane, Shocking Blue, and DI-RECT, all of whom have made significant marks on both the national and international music scenes with deep roots in the city. By providing dedicated spaces for emerging talent, The Hague continues to build on this tradition, nurturing the next generation of musicians in an environment that fosters creativity and collaboration.
Making music with former Ukrainian bullet casings
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