Dramatic moves!

By Marina Correa

Photography: Purnesh Dev Nikhanj; courtesy Studio Ardete

Read Time: 2 mins

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An array of exciting and assertive elements seeks to turn the Pro Fitness Gymnasium in Kurukshetra, Haryana into a benchmark for future fitness spaces…

Breaking away from stereotypical gym designs, Studio Ardete culls out dramatic ceilings, bold graphics and continuity in patterns and materiality – very unlike a gym - for the sprawling 5,000 sq. ft. space; in sync with fast-changing mindsets and lifestyles in tier 2 cities that reflect a spawning effect from buzzing metropolitan fare.

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A subtle colour palette of crème, umber, grey and black anoints the interiors with colour popping out from strong graphic elements; as black mirrors used throughout enhance the volumetric dimensions and depth.

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Striking ceilings and continuity of form is seen viz. a white asymmetrical ceiling at the entrance that flows down to form a reception table; a white trapezoidal ceiling over the juice bar again continues whilst transforming into niches for storage. The ceiling also takes on a subtle function of demarcating one area from the other in this largely open plan layout, whilst the beige wooden flooring is practical and unifying. 
  

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The base grey/black ceiling surface is layered with wooden battens and white pop-down ceilings (at places), bringing out a powerful juxtaposition of warm and cool tones. A mix of lighting such as pendant lamps, track lights, recessed, spot etc. awash different areas – transforming moods and ambiences.

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Further, the upper storey of the two-storey edifice has an enhanced aesthetic in an artistic interplay of ropes fostering an art installation-like effect. The ceiling here features two wooden rafters running parallel in a defined zigzag pattern with ropes crisscrossing at various junctions along their length and also vertically from floor-to-ceiling; effectively binding the floor in one strong, visual language and definitely challenging conventional gym design.

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As architects, Badrinath Kaleru and Prerna Aggarwal sum up, “The concept of visual solidarity so essential to the design defines a new language for fitness design, all the while allowing for a balance of idiosyncrasies and conventionalities.”