Patrons of Results, the Gym in Washington D.C. can draw inspiration
from the architecture around them as they strive to improve
their physical form. Stoneking/von Storch Architects transformed the
once dilapidated industrial building at 1612 U Street, NW into
a dynamic 25,000 square foot health club. The key to the design's
success--as with physical fitness--was not expensive materials,
but a commitment to the process.
Results, the Gym owner Doug Jeffries wanted an athletic facility
where his personal training clients could practice what he preaches.
Stoneking/von Storch Architects worked closely with Jeffries
to accommodate 10,000 square feet of cardiovascular and weight
training space, aerobics and women's fitness studios, tanning,
massage and personal training areas, a sauna, and men's and
women's locker rooms. To meet a tight schedule and budget, the
firm combined inexpensive materials, finishes, and lighting
to create strong visual and spatial effects. The project was
completed in November, 1996 after only five months of construction.
Throughout the project, the architects strove to meet the gym's
programmatic and technological requirements while preserving
the historic building's architectural integrity. The firm worked
with neighborhood historic committees regarding exterior finishes
and new entry storefront. On the building's interior, steel
sash windows were restored and the original brick walls and
concrete ceilings were left unfinished. The owner felt strongly
that the floors remain open and naturally lit, and that the
three story facility have a single, unified identity. Toward
this end, Stoneking/von Storch Architects grouped programmatic
requirements in concentrated areas, leaving as much of the floor
plates open as possible. Finishes and lighting were used to
create a visually recognizable identity for the club across
its three levels. The treatment of the existing concrete columns
is perhaps the most dramatic realization of this identity. The
twenty four foot grid of bright yellow columns establishes different
weight training, cardiovascular and aerobic zones within the
10,000 square foot floor plates, and serves as unifying architectural
icon throughout the facility.
To satisfy the client's need for mirrors throughout the gym,
the firm designed custom mirror partitions which create more
intimate spaces within the overall open plan. Adjustable mirrors
designed for the concrete columns allow members to check their
weightlifting technique from any angle with any piece of equipment. |
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