What does a website look like that is as dynamic as the programme it presents? We started the relaunch of the Kölner Philharmonie website with this question in mind. For us, the answer was not simply modernisation, but a fundamental reinterpretation: technically, creatively – and strategically.
The reason: more than just a technical update
Since the last relaunch in 2017, user behaviour has changed fundamentally – especially in the cultural sector. Over 80% of tickets are now purchased on mobile devices. At the same time, requirements for accessibility, editorial flexibility and performance have evolved significantly. We took this opportunity to reimagine the website: not as a digital programme, but as a space for possibilities and discovery.
Find concerts. And stay.
At the heart of it all is a completely redesigned event structure. The calendar can be searched intuitively and filtered specifically – by genre, hashtags or keywords such as ‘choir concert’, ‘U29 tip’, ‘#essentials’, ‘free admission’ or ‘#moodbooster’. These tags help to communicate the diverse programme in an accessible way – without hiding any content.
The concert pages themselves have been significantly expanded: with comprehensive programme information, digital and printable programmes, media integration, artist profiles and ticket information. Despite the depth of content, the site remains clear thanks to a clear visual structure. Editorially curated recommendations also encourage exploration of related events – without any dead ends.
Technology as an enabler
In the background, a modern headless architecture ensures speed, stability and flexibility. The new site is implemented as a single-page application and uses micro-animations to subtly accompany user interactions. In addition to the home page, all pages can be displayed in different variants on a schedule – an important tool for marketing and programme dramaturgy.
Editorial meets design
A key concern was to facilitate editorial work without compromising on design standards. The new design system is modular, responsive and mobile-first – yet still clearly influenced by the Philharmonie's identity. Content can be flexibly structured, linked and contextualised – for example, in the new blog section kphil Stories, where editorial articles can be directly linked to the relevant events.
What remains
What made this project special for us was the close and constructively collaborative relationship with the Kölner Philharmonie team under the artistic direction of Ewa Bogusz-Moore. The relaunch was a joint, creative design process – and at the same time the most technically advanced update to date. The result is a website that provides orientation, inspires and becomes an experience in itself. Today, the concert experience begins online.