Cutting Up: An Innovative Ikea-Style Gym

Minyi Zhang and Yingcong He's Unique Approach to Fitness Center Design

The designers drew inspiration from the Livat mall's unique character. Built by Ikea, the mall is a lifestyle art center, which inspired the concept of an "Ikea-style gym." The gym's design breaks away from the conventional fitness club aesthetic, adopting a playful, bright color scheme reminiscent of a children's playground.

What sets this gym apart is its focus on family. The designers noted that most fitness clubs cater to individuals, but they wanted to create a space where the whole family could enjoy time together. They studied Ikea's customer base, style, color, and product design to create a gym that would appeal to the mall's family-oriented clientele.

The gym's realization involved a thoughtful combination of materials and colors. The designers used cube-like structures to create a three-dimensional space, reminiscent of the art sculptures found throughout the Livat mall. They also utilized rewan glass, wood, colored lights, acoustic panels, and marble in the project.

The project presented several design challenges, including a narrow entrance and a lack of natural light. To overcome these obstacles, the designers used an arc-shaped route to hide the interior and reduce the dull feeling of the space. The result is a gym that feels open and inviting, despite its architectural limitations.

Since its completion in April 2017, the Cutting Up gym has been recognized for its innovative design. It was awarded Silver in the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2018, a testament to its creative and professional excellence. This Ikea-style gym is not just a place to exercise—it's a space where families can connect and enjoy their time together.

Minyi Zhang and Yingcong He's Cutting Up gym is a shining example of how design can transform a space and create a unique, engaging experience. It's a testament to the power of innovative thinking and the potential of design to redefine traditional spaces.