We divided the space into two zones: the community room and the fitness center. We put a lot of thought into the functionality, conducted interviews with the building owners and brokers to gain a clearer insight to the needs of their tenants and started developing a program.

In an effort to make the space feel more intimate and human, we came up with the concept of a 9'-0" H "horizon" line along the walls. This helped ground the space. We were also very focused on making all built-in elements accessible and inclusive for all types of users. We conducted many studies of the island design to ensure that all types of people would be able to use it with ease.

Elevation study of the 9'-0" horizon line concept

We were also very focused on making all built-in elements accessible and inclusive for all types of users. We conducted many studies of the island design to ensure that all types of people would be able to use it with ease. We presented two design options to the client.

We wanted the fitness center to have a completely different attitude from the community room. We wanted to people to feel energized and motivated during their workouts. We did this by infusing it with pops of bright color, intentional light fixture installations, and a stark color contrast to the community room.

I was responsible for putting together all of the construction documents and ensuring that the team's design decisions were captured properly. I also coordinated with consultants, contractors, and engineers to ensure that the approved drawings were translated and executed accordingly. That was my favorite part! Learning and collaborating with people beyond our internal team - it allows you find solutions to unexpected challenges in new ways.

Snippet of the Reflected Ceiling Plan (RCP)

We ran into a few snags along the way due to existing structures and mechanical layouts. One major one was the drainage for the new showers/restrooms. We needed to get a structural engineer involved in order to gain a better understanding of what was going on under the slab. The new rooms we laid out were partly over dirt and not fully in line with the basement. With the help of the structural engineer, we were able to make it work! Another big item was coordinating with a new restaurant space in the building. They needed to run a giant grease duct through our fitness center and community room. After lots of on-site coordination, we found a way to make it work for everyone involved! We had a great team and reached our goal of giving a dark and dated space a fresh life. Building tenants now use both spaces daily.