Studio South Fitness Project: Transforming A Former Workspace into a Workout Place

By Barron Schimberg, AIA LEED AP

Did you see the article “ Sarasota’s Next Top Fitness Team ” in the January, 2013 issue of Scene magazine? The story describes Tiffany Liashek’s concept for the new Studio South Fitness center she opened in December on South Osprey Avenue. Studio South Fitness offers custom workouts that include one-on-one sessions with a personal trainer and a schedule of classes tailored to the each client’s goals.

The Schimberg Group helped Tiffany bring her vision for the gym to life. We provided the architecture and interior design services that transformed 6,000 sf of former office space into a contemporary gym with a stylish, homelike decor.

To support her concept for friendly, personalized training, Tiffany wanted the facility to look warmer and more comfortable than many big-box gyms.

The photos below highlight some of the design details. For example, carpet tile and vinyl wood flooring cover the main areas, and kitchen-like cabinetry, wood-look lockers, and restrooms with decorative fixtures and mirrors make you feel at home. Painted orange walls energize the workout spaces, while calming blues and earth tones add warmth and balance throughout.

Because Studio South Fitness is all about health and well-being, the facility uses eco-friendly carpet tiles, VOC-free paints and natural day lighting throughout.

Todd Anderson, who has worked as a fitness trainer, did a terrific job as project architect.

He says “Having experience in the fitness industry allowed me to better coordinate with consultants and contractors, properly space plan fitness equipment, and effectively communicate with the owner to create a successful project.”

If you would like to turn an existing property into something new and different, give us a call.

Whether you already have a fully formed vision for the space, or would like us to suggest some ideas, we would be happy to help!

LINKS

SCENE: Sarasota’s Next Top Fitness Team

PHOTO CREDIT: Greg Wilson, www.gregwilsonphoto.com