Hagius Concept Fitness Studio in Berlin by Gonzalez Haase

Ergonomic and intuitive, this holistic, biorhythms-focussed gym, located in a historic post office in Berlin, proves functionality can be beautiful. Designed by Gonzalez Haase, the team completely restored the 600-metre square footprint, opting for neutral interiors that encourage a holistic reconciliation of the mind and body.

Commissioned by brothers Nicolas and Timothy Hagius, the circadian-based fitness studio is home to a team of trainers, osteopaths and neurologists who devised concepts rooted in light, sound, aroma, and tempo. Lights are dimmed to minimize blue light waves, preventing the disruption of melatonin production during workouts, while fragrance studio Aoiro developed custom scents with natural ingredients that encourage different biorhythmic responses throughout the day.

Spatially, Gonzalez Haase removed all elements deemed structurally unnecessary to create two main axes that open up the view over the entire length of the building. Round matte stainless steel panels were installed at either end of the central axis to reflect light throughout the space. In the east the circular back walls feature a drinking fountain while in the west sound equipment and custom incense installations line the wall.

Working with unfinished, raw materials like untreated aluminium, maple, granite, linen and burlap creates a texturally haptic palette that begs to be touched and highlights the physical nature of the venue. Four metre high walls are divided horizontally with varying textures of paint. The top grain finish diffuses light while the glossy lower half captures each movement initiated by the visitor, mimicking the flow of activity.

With the studio promoting a return for patrons to a more ‘natural state’, Gonzalez Haase ensured no hidden coating or treated surfaces were used in the design. The colours of each material used have been preserved from either their natural origin or initial production. “We have created a form of complexity in a space that at first sight may look relatively simple due to the tranquillity it exudes. That complexity stems from unusual surfaces and an uncommon composition of materials,” principal architect Pierre Jorge Gonzalez explains.

Materiality and lighting choices create clear aesthetic distinctions between the various spaces and their functions. Treatment rooms are bathed in a warm glow and textured walls for a cocoon effect, while training areas are more rigorous with clean lines, stainless steel panelled walls and overhead lighting.

Custom-made elements, such as grids of polished stainless steel for boxing glove storage serve as aesthetic solutions that blend function with the interior. “It’s like being in a chef’s kitchen: if the equipment makes sense, if it’s properly positioned and ergonomic, you sense it right away. Functionality can be beautiful”, muses Gonzalez.

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