FitnGlam, a fitness club that was founded to change the landscape of women’s fitness in the UAE, has recently opened a branch in Dubai Hills.
INC was commissioned by the client to design the interior of its gym. It was looking for a new spin on its original interior design, one that would make women feel empowered and confident while working out.
INC designed a vibrant and energetic space for FitnGlam that was geared towards women of all ages, with an emphasis on creating a fun and vibrant environment where members could be themselves while working out.
The new space incorporates elements from the existing Mirdiff FitnGlam gym—such as the pink walls—but in order to create a fresher vibe in line with the brand as it has matured, INC used bold colours and strong materials – all with a focus on neutral, golden and iridescent pink tones which FitnGlam is known for.
“We were really excited to work with FitnGlam. They have such an iconic aesthetic, and although we wanted to keep many elements of it, we also wanted to freshen it up. The FitnGlam brand is known for its high energy and bright colours, so it was important that we maintained this image in our design” – INC Designer, Annabelle Cleary.
As the project started to take shape, Acoulite was appointed by INC Group to support in the creation of a truly unique gym experience for FitnGlam members.
As a premium fitness gym in the Middle East, it was vital that FitnGlam had flexible lighting and controls to enhance the training experience of its members, as well a dynamic and multi-functional lighting solutions throughout the gym. The client also needed a single platform to control and monitor them from. With a wide variety of lighting types – from static, pixel, to more nuanced lighting which uses dimming tech – FitnGlam needed a controls solution that would bring abundant versatility and flexibility to its space.
The challenge was to draw on the expertise of various other partners – a number of contractors, designers and project managers – to carefully coordinate and navigate the intricate nature of the lighting proposal.
To kick this unique project off, Acoulite worked closely together with INC Group to understand its unique vision for FitnGlam’s space and to bring it to life using the very latest in light and lighting controls technology. In addition, with the intricate nature of the lighting proposal – and so much low-level joinery, lighting and a number of light systems to consider – vigorous collaboration was the key to unlocking some outstanding results for the client.
Along with the FitnGlam team and a number of project partners, Acoulite has created a space that is modern, airy and designed to energise, and empower members – all via an innovative use of light and precision controls.
“We utilized strategic lighting to create an atmosphere that mirrors the energy and vibes of a traditional male gym. By using a combination of overhead and accent lighting along with a well designed controls system, we were able to create a high-energy environment that is both motivational and inclusive. Our goal was to help INC’s main vision to break down barriers and prove that a gym can be both feminine and fierce, and by utilizing the power of lighting, we’ve created a space that does just that.” Senior Specifications Manager, Acoulite – Muthukumaran Muthu
Acoulite carefully positioned a series of Flos and LED Flex lighting to provide the client with the contemporary feel it was after. In addition, NEKO lighting was used for all the general lighting. A combination of all of these styles provides the space with a robust schema which can be flexed to fit the mood the client is trying to create at any one time in the various areas of the gym.
Utilising LEDFlex lighting, Acoulite, created a two-tunnel feature which is a visually stimulating attraction for gymgoers. This lighting solution was also used to lead the way into the male gym where a truly unique look and feel was accomplished. The open ceiling baffle lighting also works to provide the right mood and atmosphere for patrons.
Providing precision controls
One major part of Acoulite’s work was to provide the client with a bespoke lighting controls system. This allows FitnGlam to dim, and even schedule lighting preferences with ease – resulting in a heightened experience for the gym’s customers.
Managed via Architectural and DMX controllers – all with dedicated controls via local user interfaces and an iPad – the platform allows the fitness centre’s management to monitor and control the lighting from one intuitive dashboard, as well as gain insights about scene change patterns.
In addition, the Acoulite solution also enhanced the interaction between light and sound via the space’s audio system. In fact, the solution provided was so bespoke that each individual trainer is now able to command the right atmosphere for the start and finish of each of their sessions.
Combining spectacular lighting and precision controls, the Acoulite team has produced a truly spectacular and energising atmosphere for the client and its members.