FITNESS AND SQUASH CLUB, BODYBOOST, REFURBISHMENT
Three cuts convert a rigid and introverted concrete structure into an infinite sequential space. This is shaped by tailor made steel furniture, light cubes and eternal reflections. By the omnipresence of the outside in the interior and the sequential perception of changing dimensions, this conversion reconsiders the fitness-club typology
The conversion of a rigid and introverted volume into an extroverted and endless space.
The original building was erected in the 70s as a twelve-court squash centre. It consists of four floors, of which two are underground. The aim was to create a sports facility consisting of six Squash courts, which remain underground and a state-of-the-art fitness club on the main floor. The double height space of the courts stands in contrast to the 3m room height of the circulation area. The structure is reinforced concrete and the courts all feature a gallery. That creates a visible spatial connection within the building.
Originally the colours were orange, green and brown and there was no visual connection to the outside. Although there was a generous space, this could not be perceived.
The idea of the project was to create an “endless space”. Therefore, a radical change of the character of the old facility was necessary: All the interior was recycled and 80 tonnes of concrete had been cut out. Hereby the individual courts were put in direct relation to each other, creating a typology that reminds of the enfilade.
Due to the 3m tall and 9m long mirrors along the sides of the courts, this effect is multiplied almost infinitely. The mirrors also grant the visual connection to the outside, as it’s now possible to look around the corners.
To enhance this aspiration of the infinite, reflections are omnipresent throughout the whole project. Nature, sunlight and artificial light bounce off and blend together on the natural and shiny surfaces: Raw steel, sandblasted stainless steel, Polycarbonate, Glass and Wood. And real Silver color on the ceilings and selected walls.
The mixture of the material creates a contrast between the surreal, the silky, the shiny and the natural. As does the only lockable space with its 50 lamps, multiplied by two, as they reflect in the mirror.
All the steel furniture, including the staircase, balustrades, ashtrays, bins, sinks, etc have been specifically designed with 5mm steel sheets. Produced in Catalonia, Spain, they were shipped to Switzerland. The wardrobes are masterpieces of craftsmanship. Some are 2650mm tall and weigh 300 kilograms.
Apart from the silver coating, no paint was applied. All the craftsmanship is reflected within the skill of working the material. This provides the human character to a project that seems almost unreal…
