At Unity Fitness, members are inspired to come together on their lifestyle journeys, explore new forms of movement, and experience what it means to form a fitness collective.
Nestled within the historic Sugar Wharf development in Toronto’s vibrant Harbourfront area, this state-of-the-art gym blends urban sensibilities with natural beauty. Sugar Wharf, symbolizes Toronto’s industrial heritage transformed into a modern, mixed-use community, incorporating residential, office, and retail spaces.
Figure3 leveraged its multisector expertise, applying insights from residential demographics, neighborhood studies, and wellness principles to design a space that resonates with the community. The large volume space, raw architectural elements and natural light of the Sugar Wharf location provided a sound foundation for the design team to build upon. Drawing inspiration from nautical themes and refined industrial aesthetics, the design of Unity Fitness offers a bespoke, holistic, and enriching fitness experience that caters to a diverse community.
Placing emphasis on the customer journey, Figure3 designed a welcoming, hospitality-inspired lounge that draws guests in, creating an immediate emphasis on the connection and community at the heart of Unity Fitness. The intent behind the lobby was to create a vibrant social environment where people can relax, socialize, or even work, greatly expanding the function beyond a typical gym entry point.
A stunning custom chain link ceiling installation sits alongside organic shaped tube-light fixtures that ripple through the space, casting fluid, dynamic patterns that evoke the gentle movement of waves. This thoughtful integration of nautical elements provide a captivating visual experience and moody atmospherics that create interest from the streetscape with curious illumination.
Gyms and fitness centers have become social hubs for the Gen Z and Millennials demographics, who value community, wellness, and the ability to share their experiences on social media. Unity Fitness taps into this cultural trend, offering a space that is both functional and aesthetically relevant. Throughout the design, members find intentional branded moments that beg to be captured. The successful brand integration throughout the facility creates numerous opportunities for members to share their experiences, driving engagement and creating buzz.
Each environment within Unity Fitness is meticulously designed, ensuring that that spaces like the Yoga Room and Spin Room are even more exceptional than their standalone counterparts. The yoga room’s calming atmosphere features soft drapes, enhanced acoustics, and infrared heating to create a serene environment. The spin room prioritizes visual sightlines and includes a raised platform for an immersive experience. Lighting plays a pivotal role in the Unity Fitness experience, helping each room to exude a distinct personality and optimize the space for its intended use.
