Dear alumni
This autumn, our chapter hosted a cozy fall event. Although the event was listed early in our annual program, the formal invitation went out on relatively short notice. Still, a dedicated group of alumni signed up, proving once again that spontaneity and good company go hand in hand.
We chose a venue that’s quite unique for Basel: Werk8, located in the Gundeldingen district on a repurposed industrial site. This area was one of the first in Basel to undergo a creative transformation, now home to a vibrant mix of initiatives, from the Blinde Kuh, a restaurant offering dining in complete darkness, to climbing halls, boutique shops, and artisan workshops.
Werk8 itself occupies a spacious former factory hall, with distinct zones for dining tables and lounge-style couches. We had reserved a cozy couch corner, but were ultimately seated at a table — possibly due to not pre-ordering an apéro platter. While we could have placed an order, experience has taught us that pre-booking for our group can be risky: attendance is often fluid, and no-shows without notice are not uncommon. As organizers, we prefer to avoid the awkwardness of covering costs for absent guests.
Despite these logistical quirks, the evening was a success. The group was lively, conversations flowed, and we were pleasantly surprised by a few familiar faces who dropped in unannounced. The only downside? The ambient noise level. The restaurant was bustling, and staying tuned into each other’s stories required some concentration — but that didn’t dampen the spirit.
Looking ahead: For our final event of 2025, we’re planning a festive gathering at the Christmas market, with fondue or raclette in a cozy lodge setting. It promises to be a fulminant finale to a memorable year — so stay tuned and save the date!
Warmest regards,
Philippe Waelle, President Basel Chapter
Corinna Grisostimi, Event Officer
Patrick Naef, Event Officer