Transa Backpacking AG
For Transa, a store was to be created at Basel SBB station that wouldn’t just sell outdoor gear, but make it an experience — right in the heart of the city.
An Indoor Trail as an Architectural Experience
Right in the heart of Basel SBB station, Transa has opened a new chapter in brick-and-mortar retail, and Aroma was tasked with designing the spatial concept. Spanning four floors and around 2,300 square meters, the space offers a place where outdoor gear isn’t just sold — it’s truly experienced.
At the center of the new store is the Transa Trail — Switzerland’s first indoor treetop walkway. What is usually reserved for hiking areas and nature parks is brought into the urban environment here: a multi-level wooden pathway that connects the floors while serving as both a functional and emotional centerpiece.
The trail winds across platforms, suspension bridges, and testing stations — for example, for shoes or binoculars — and invites visitors to linger in relaxation areas like the “Chill Net.” Sound showers and a children’s slide are also planned to complete the experience.
“Our goal was not just to create retail space, but to craft a place where Transa’s outdoor DNA can be experienced physically,” explains Yves Thommen, Managing Director of Aroma Architecture.
The concept makes deliberate use of the station’s vertical space to create a narrative of discovery: visible from the walkway, the trail sparks curiosity and draws visitors into the space. Wood, as the central material, emphasizes a connection to nature and adds warmth within the urban context.
In addition to the trail, the new Transa location features a comprehensive rental and repair station, a Patagonia shop-in-shop, and a wide range of mountain and winter sports gear. Basel thus becomes a strong hub for outdoor experiences — right in the middle of the city.
