DESIGN NAME: U Energy
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Boutique Health Club
INSPIRATION: According to 'The Organism' by Goldstein, light travels through
neurological pathways and affects the pineal gland in the brain,
which affects our body, mind and emotions. The linear structures fitted with said neon lighting strips run parallel across the space, creating invisible dividers subtly highlighting personal zones but also encouraging a competitive culture amongst the gym-goers.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Chosen 'The best gyms around the world for design buffs in 2108' by Wallpaper *.
U Energy was borne out of a need for respite from the hectic nature of daily life.
Encouraging connection and interaction, the gym space is completely open, divided only by structural concrete pillars and the industrial-style equipment within it. The underground gym features skylights to allow beams of light from above, while neon lighting aids progression during workouts and creates a trendy atmosphere.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: An area for stretching is cut-off only by thick black cords,
off-setting against the feature monochrome striped walls and
adding to the geometric nature of the environment. There is a
separate studio for spinning classes and an area for lockers and
changing rooms. The remainder of the gym remains raw and
industrial in style allowing members to focus only on enhancing
their well-being without the busy distractions of Beirut.
The result is an edgy and dynamic, motivational setting conducive for a
healthy, energetic and comfortable workout.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: RG/Architects took on this project in May 2016 and delivered it in November 2017. U Energy is located in Hazmieh, Lebanon
FITS BEST INTO CATEGORY: Interior Space and Exhibition Design
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: U Energy's main materials are quite raw, reflecting the bold and honest architecture of the space.
Flooring is Special Impact Rubber.
Walls and columns are in Cast in place Concrete.
Black steel for the cage, bar structure.
Coffee and Juice Bar top is made of Carrara Marble.
Cabinet and Locker panels are made of High Pressure Laminate and grooved with number graphics.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Location: Hazmieh, Lebanon
Area: 1200 square meter
TAGS: Fitness, Health Club, Rabih Geha, RG/Architects, Rabih Geha Architects, U Energy, Interior Design
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: A lot of Health club research was obviously done: about its beginnings, the evolution, and a very developed research was conducted about light/colors/energy. The latter was a key thread in the design development of the health club.
CHALLENGE: It was quite challenging to create innovation in social experience. Socializing not only through an open plan, but creating a space that encourages team culture, we wanted to create an immersive experience achieved through playful interaction between gym goers and through communication of different areas within an open space. Even the enclosed area for classes has a clear visual communication with the rest of the space though transparent net like enclosures.
ADDED DATE: 2018-03-14 10:21:27
TEAM MEMBERS (3) : Rabih Geha (Principal), Cynthia Safi (Project Manager) and Maya Kaaki (Interior Architect)
IMAGE CREDITS: All Images: Photographer Tony Elieh, U Energy, 2017
PATENTS/COPYRIGHTS: No Patents
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