The Hut Group
The Brief
zynk have recently completed the design of global technology business, THG’s brand-new employee gym, located in THG’s ICON Studios in Manchester.
The brief for the 4,000 sq/ft space was to design a completely immersive experience that can morph from a cutting-edge workout space to a dynamic branded environment for the promotion of THG wellness brands, with an AV system never before seen in a UK gym.
The Solution
The THG gym consists of multiple zones including strength, free weights, cardio and functional, with luxury changing rooms and accessible facilities.
Utilising Technogym’s Skill, Artis and Pure Strength ranges, each zone has rows of LCD screens that have been placed behind mirrors. These screens can be activated individually, giving users control of each screen for mirroring workout apps from their smart devices. They can also be connected to specific pieces of equipment or combined for a fully immersive experience.
Alternatively, the screens can be linked to run branded promotions for products such as Myprotein, ideal for photoshoots when the company has brand ambassadors and influencers working out in the space.
The main feature of the gym is located above the functional zone: a suspended cube of digital LED light fittings that can work in unison to generate 3D images. These images can be used for training and functional programmes, or as brand promotion.
The design direction and materiality reflect that of urban luxury with the use of hot-rolled steel panels, pale oak, cement renders, nickel mesh and poured finish sports flooring.
The overall scheme is unique for a training space, putting the user at the centre of an interactive, immersive experience and showcasing materials and finishes which not only create a dynamic workout environment, but are also fit for purpose.
