Designing a system of interrelated zones that reinforce a variety of fitness trends helps a startup brand establish itself in a crowded field.
A boutique fitness startup had a unique vision: To co-brand a number of small, independent studios under one umbrella company. Their ambitious plan to open up two locations in quick succession – one in Melrose, in a brick-and-beam three-story office building, and one in Winchester, in a former law office – required comprehensive code studies since both were considered a change in use.
Ebbrell Architecture + Design was enlisted from the planning stages to help conceive of a strategy for supporting the independent nature of each fitness studio while at the same time helping to reinforce the boutique feel of the entire facility. The execution of the first gym was so successful that the client returned to Ebbrell Architecture + Design when it came time to execute a full-gut renovation at the second location.
- Developed exercise-specific rooms to support various fitness trends including spinning, yoga, interval training, and personal training.
- Collaborated closely with a building envelope specialist and a mechanical engineer on designing a hot yoga studio in a former garage space, which relies on proper ventilation and accurate temperature and humidity control.
- Integrated a welcoming reception and retail area that also included a secure babysitting area and a multi-purpose room for community meetings or fitness/nutritional consultation.
- Specified a clean, bright design for the locker rooms, complete with showers and changing areas.
- Drafted and submitted comprehensive code reviews for both locations due to the change in use from office to a fitness capacity.
