Excerpt: Physiofit – Rajkot’s Fitness Sanctuary by Dhulia Architecture Design is a unique building that deviates from the typical aesthetics of a fitness center. The project offers a unique fitness experience, creating a haven for physical and mental rejuvenation. The interiors are meticulously crafted to motivate and inspire, while the exteriors reflect its uniqueness. The architecture seeks to enhance user connection and foster a stronger sense of belonging.
Project Description
[Text as submitted by architect] The story of Physiofit starts from a simple idea – to invigorate peoples’ minds and craft an experience beyond physical fitness. The architects approached this design with two guiding principles: to be iconic and unforgettable and to consciously drift away from the expected aesthetic of a fitness centre. After extensive research about fitness psychology, user behaviour, and detailed site analysis, this project is a curation of experiences that motivates its visitors towards fitter tomorrow.
The site adjoins the beautiful moringa plantations on the south and west, arterial roads on the east, and educational buildings on the north, which form the immediate context. The programmatic brief includes two main sections – Gym and Physiotherapy. The gym has three Fitness Zones, a Group Exercise Studio, CrossFit and Sports Turf. The physiotherapy section has specialized ortho and neuro rehabilitation areas, alongside long-stay rooms for extended recovery. Two receptions, administrative offices, cosmetics area, and muscle recovery facilities cater to the needs of both gym and physiotherapy clients. The design approach and these requirements split the building vertically into two halves.
The building’s facade seamlessly blends minimalist lines with subtle classical elements, fostering a sense of relatability and permanence. The use of materials creates a balanced composition while breaking down the scale. The heavy stone-clad walls at the base bear an intricate chiselled Kadapa work by local masons. The building transitions from a solid base to a lighter, more skyward-reaching form. Level one features raw plastered walls, arched openings and glass. Above, the roof takes on the graceful form of a mountain range, settling gently upon the structure. The building presents a stark contrast with its context.
As the sun traverses the sky, the interplay of light and shadow across the facade and interiors adds another layer of dynamism to the building’s design. The deep openings on the ground floor and the arched openings on level one allow controlled sunlight while creating an interesting play of light and shadow.
The architecture of the building and the openings framing the moringa plantation sets the perfect stage for a fascinating interior narrative to unfold. “Imagine a space that whispers treasures of the natural world: a night sky above tall coniferous trees and light rain, thunderstorms and rocky terrain, also a night where a galaxy of stars is visible.” This evokes a sense of nature and growth, skillfully translated into the space.
The flooring on the ground floor depicts a light rain shower, while coniferous trees hanging from the roof are used as a light installation, extending into a thunderstorm light in the adjoining reception. The office ceilings have flower motifs handpainted with natural wood furniture with motifs of tree twigs and leaves inlaid. Similarly, Fit Zones One and Two have also designed light installations inspired by meteor showers and galaxies of light.
This project transcends the typical fitness experience, emerging as a sanctuary for physical and mental rejuvenation. The meticulously crafted interiors form a journey designed to motivate and inspire. While the exteriors stand strong, reflecting the uniqueness of the project. The entire design represents a new approach to fitness centres, offering carefully tailored experiences to help each user connect more effectively with the building and develop a stronger sense of belonging.
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