Space:

Recreational

As a long time F45 attendee, I often notice the disconnect between its premium price, stated objectives and the design of its spaces. While the business model purports community along with high performance fitness, the environments rarely reflect those values, especially when it comes to post-workout recovery or opportunities to genuinely connect with fellow fitness aficionado’s.

This redesign proposes a holistic fitness experience that aligns with the brands aspirations and price point. Conceptualized for a high-traffic urban location, the space introduces a layered customer journey, scripting an experience from entry to exist, focused not just on performance, but also recovery and camaraderie.

At its entry sits a heavy stone block, sculpted as if from a solid stone this interior actually offers steam, cold and other sensory experiences designed to prime the body before class, and help it decompress afterward. Wood-trimmed glass folding screens with fabric transoms blur the true border between inside and outside mediating privacy while inviting curiosity from passersby. A home-ly lobby furnished with custom millwork welcome members into a space that feels personal, not transactional. The contrast between the refined entry zones and the rawness of the gym floor reinforces a psychological shift – from preparation to performance.

A progression from public to private unfolds as you make your way to the changing rooms, each programmed around an interior cube skewed on its axis which house various services. Inspired by traditional team-sport facilities the shower bays have been left open and unadorned purposefully withholding privacy in an attempt to encourage honesty with other attendees; a forced metal exercise in resetting expectations; to help dissolve the overly curated and unrealistic body expectations found on social media; a forced moment of shared vulnerability and platonic connection.

The concept challenges conventional fitness interiors by rebalancing function with emotional intentions. It’s a space designed not just for movement, but for pause, reflection, and community.