Jonny Knüppel

About the project
Jonny Knüppel is a self-managed, collective cultural project. Since 2018, it has been based on a former industrial railway site in Prenzlauer Berg. The venue provides space for music, club culture and cultural experiments and is a meeting place for artists, DJs, collectives and cultural workers. The project developed a comprehensive and mobile soundproofing concept for the site.

Initial situation
After the site was given a long-term perspective of at least five years, the aim was to further improve its soundproofing. A study by K5 showed that several coordinated measures were needed because of the site’s small-scale and unusual buildings.

Measures

1. Soundproofing for the power supply
The 135 kVA power generator was fitted with a soundproof enclosure. This reduced noise from the generator, especially at night.

2. Directional sound system
A 6.1 sound system with directional hybrid bass arrays was installed for the outdoor area. The setup reduces sound, especially low-frequency noise, travelling towards the rear of the site.

3. Soundproofing structures in the outdoor area
A nearly continuous structure made from converted ISO containers, scaffolding and plants serves as a sound barrier and helps diffuse sound.

4. Rebuilding the “Bunga”
The existing Bunga extension was removed and rebuilt using containers. Soundproofing and room acoustics were combined to create a better environment for visitors.

5. Building the “Salon”
Due to several delays, the Salon could initially only be completed as a shell. Completion was planned for autumn 2024.

Result
The comprehensive soundproofing concept made it possible to address the different sources of sound at the site and improve the quality of the space. The mobile construction, mainly using 20- and 40-foot ISO containers, also means that the investment can be reused if the project moves to another location.