Coworking in De Koepel: one amazing network for all businesses

Over the past few years, De Koepel in Haarlem has undergone an impressive transformation, from a prison to a thriving coworking space. Since January 2022, this iconic location has become the place where businesses, freelancers and creatives come together to work, connect and grow. AXS ict was invited as a specialist in coworking spaces to build the digital backbone of this unique working environment.

Inside De Koepel, you’ll find several major tenants alongside a lively coworking space. On the upper floors, companies and freelancers rent one or more cells (it was a prison, after all). On the open floor, beneath the stunning dome, anyone can grab a seat and get to work.

Even the cinema on the ground floor uses our internet connection, though it operates on its own secured network.

Challenges of a former prison

A building like De Koepel naturally comes with its own set of challenges. Thick walls, steel cell doors and the circular shape make it difficult for wifi signals to spread efficiently. Our approach began with a comprehensive wifi scan performed by an external specialist. Using so-called access points on a stick, we tested the signal coverage throughout the building and designed a detailed wifi plan.

In practice, we found that less can sometimes be more: too many access points actually caused signal interference. We therefore reduced the number of wifi points and positioned them strategically — often high up in the building and equipped with directional antennas. The result: stable, interference-free coverage throughout the space.

The entire solution was built redundantly, meaning two networks run in parallel. If one fails, the other automatically takes over. That reliability is crucial — people don’t come here just for the view; the fast and stable internet connection is a major reason to work here.

Central printing solution: smart, effortless and free

AXS ict also provides a smart, scalable printing solution. Four central printers have been installed, all connected to a user-friendly pay-per-print system. Users can print using their access card, username and password — even from home. Billing happens automatically each month, so the coworking space doesn’t have to lift a finger. We take care of everything.

Because users pay per print, it’s completely free for the coworking space to install one or more printers.

One stop shop for coworking spaces

AXS ict is more than just a network provider. We deliver complete IT solutions for coworking spaces and their tenants — from cabling to AV setups such as wireless meeting rooms (in partnership with Maar AV) and integrations with booking platforms like Bisner. We make sure everything runs smoothly and seamlessly together.

Tenants can easily add users or request extra IT services such as workspace management, high-speed wifi or security solutions via our online portal.

AXS ict Haarlem also occupies two cells within De Koepel itself. This means we can quickly respond to any IT-related questions from tenants, and that’s a big advantage.

Opening a new hotel? No problem, because sharing is caring

Recently, Metzlr House, the new hotel within De Koepel, joined our network infrastructure. Thanks to the shared setup, we were able to provide the hotel and its guests with ultra-fast, stable and secure internet — quickly and cost-effectively.

Because ultimately, collaboration saves money. Everyone benefits from the best technology, costs stay low and user experience improves. That’s what AXS ict stands for.