fitness1 is shaped by moonkolee architects with shifting volumes

shifting volumes by moonkolee architects

Seoul-based architecture studio moonkolee architects has recently unveiled Fitness1, an innovative indoor sports facility situated along a plot defined by irregular site boundaries in South Korea. The concrete building’s design is characterized by shifting volumes, with the left facade segmented into three masses and the right facade divided into two. The architectural choices add visually interest while serving programmatic purposes, creating a blend of form and function.

images © FotoGLab | @rawkkim

fitness1: contrasting elements of glass and concrete

The left facade of moonkolee architects‘ Fitness1 presents a rhythmic appearance, intentionally avoiding grandiosity when viewed from the school gymnasium. In contrast, the right facade, located near the main entrance, incorporates a glass curtain wall to enhance visibility and natural lighting. The rear of the building features horizontally elongated windows, providing occupants with a captivating view of the natural scenery to the north. Careful consideration has been given to differentiate each floor’s purpose and distinguish the left and right facades, resulting in a visually engaging and purposeful architectural composition.

moonkolee architects an indoor sports facility in South Korea with shifting volumes and distinctive facades

step inside the fitness center

The ground floor of Fitness1, supported by a piloti structure, is designed by moonkolee architects to open towards the sports field, offering a fluid connection to the outdoors. A low wall, matching the facade material, serves both as a boundary and a visual separator, enhancing the open and expansive visual experience. Trees planted between the sports stand wall and the front wall of the building contribute to visual privacy, creating a picturesque scene where nature and architecture harmonize.

the right facade features a glass curtain wall near the main entrance, prioritizing visibility and natural lighting

The second floor accommodates the fitness center, catering to constantly moving individuals. To balance the need for interference prevention with the adjacent school’s line of sight and the creation of an open indoor environment, a 1.5 meter-high ribbon window is applied to the front. The design integrates low windows for those standing on the second floor, maintaining a connection with the surrounding environment. Meanwhile, the third floor is dedicated to a full-sized indoor tennis court, featuring a solid wall at the front. The planning takes into account the facility’s characteristics and user convenience, ensuring a purposeful and functional space.

the left facade showcases a rhythmic design, avoiding grandiosity when viewed from the school gymnasium

Fitness 1’s structural system is divided into front and rear sections, employing a steel-reinforced concrete (SRC) long-span structure in the front and a reinforced concrete (RC) structure in the rear. This thoughtful division optimizes space for various sports activities while ensuring ease of construction and cost-effectiveness. The building’s exterior, featuring a grey-toned thermal insulation finish, showcases the masses’ form with a play of shadows, embodying a rational structure plan.