In London’s bustling Moorgate district, Studio RHE has crafted a fitness facility that pushes the boundaries of design and function. Recognized as the winner of the 2024 FRAME Awards in the Spatial Category, Third Space Moorgate is more than a gym—it’s a carefully curated environment where cutting-edge architecture meets modern urban life.
A Visionary Design Concept
Studio RHE approached Third Space Moorgate with a vision to embody the energy of London’s fast-paced lifestyle in a fitness space. The concept integrates high-tech innovation and material finesse to redefine what a gym can be. From the bold choice of corrugated metal walls with vibrant orange accents to the intricate choreography of light and space, the design is a celebration of functionality wrapped in futuristic aesthetics.
The standout feature is the striking central staircase, a sculptural element that spans three floors. Clad in metal, tinted mirrors, and ceppo stone, the staircase becomes a focal point, its presence elevated by a bespoke chandelier with 360 LED tubes mimicking cascading water. The design sets the tone for a space where form and function coexist seamlessly.
Spatial Flow and Functional Zones
One of Studio RHE’s priorities was to create fluid transitions between workout zones, ensuring intuitive navigation while maintaining distinct areas for cardio, strength training, yoga, and pilates. The open-plan layout avoids visual clutter, offering an organized yet dynamic environment.
Lighting design plays a crucial role, with a custom system tailored to suit each area’s mood and purpose. This adaptability allows the gym to cater to various activities and times of day, enhancing both ambiance and utility.
In the changing rooms, sleek tiling, custom lockers, and rainfall showers create a luxurious retreat. A spa-like atmosphere is further amplified with salt-infused steam rooms and rich materials like ceppo stone and deep wine tones, demonstrating Studio RHE’s attention to detail and commitment to creating a holistic user experience.
Sustainability and Adaptive Reuse
Studio RHE’s approach to Third Space Moorgate reflects a thoughtful use of resources. Housed in a former carpark, the gym exemplifies adaptive reuse with innovative transformations. The car ramp, a relic of the building’s past, is now an indoor running track—a playful yet functional nod to its origins. At the center of the ramp, a combat ring and cage showcase exposed concrete and MMA matting, blending raw industrial elements with purpose-driven design.
Sustainability is woven into the project through eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and carefully planned ventilation and acoustics. This focus on environmental impact aligns with Studio RHE’s broader architectural philosophy.
Elevating Fitness Through Design
Third Space Moorgate is a testament to the transformative power of architecture in everyday spaces. By combining bold aesthetics, innovative materials, and a commitment to sustainability, Studio RHE has reimagined what a fitness center can be.
The project not only responds to the functional needs of modern gym-goers but also offers an immersive experience rooted in thoughtful design. Studio RHE’s work on Third Space Moorgate demonstrates how architecture can inspire, energize, and elevate even the most routine aspects of urban life.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Project | Third Space Moorgate |
| Architect | Studio RHE |
| Client | Third Space |
| Location | Moorgate, London, UK |
| Completion | 2023 |
| Lighting | Norman Copenhagen |
| Finishes | Solus Tiles and Aaron Architectural |
