Challenge
Virgin Active made the strategic decision to open an expansive new, two-level health and wellness facility in Leighton Properties’ iconic new commercial development at 567 Collins Street, Melbourne.
WMK was engaged to deliver interiors of across the expansive 4,500sqm facility, including a 25-metre indoor heated pool, spa, sauna, multiple fitness rooms, cycle studio, change facilities, and indoor climbing zone.
The challenge was to appeal to the local working demographic as a premium gym, and also as a sociable meeting place with a buzzing café and lounge.
Solution
WMK worked closely with the client, consultant team, and builder to create a sequence of spaces which respond to the dynamic, changing requirements of a health club environment, capture the essence of the Virgin Active brand identity and ethos, and perform from a function and maintenance point of view.
The club is accessed via a concealed elevator which opens onto a dramatic double height central space. Dynamic environmental graphics capture the brand message and enliven the space, as well as serving as way-finding for members and visitors. Branding on the building’s façade adds to the club’s bold street presence.
Careful planning and arrangement of spaces ensures that visitor access and circulation is clear and efficient, while carefully selected finishes, furniture, and fixed joinery elements enhance the overall experience. WMK created a flexible, functional, and welcoming space that incorporated all the design requirements over two levels.
Outcome
Virgin Active now offers the ultimate health and lifestyle destination to meet the needs of the demanding and diverse local demographic – right in the heart of Melbourne.
WMK has successfully integrated a high-end gym into a base building originally designed to sustain a conventional office fit-out.
The team has created a dynamic and inviting environment that not only embodies the Virgin Active brand, but creates a strong health and lifestyle destination right in the centre of the Melbourne CBD.
