A Fitness Center Renovated Creating an Nightclub Atmosphere
Smartass, a Ukrainian fitness brand, runs fitness facilities where group training takes place in an atmosphere reminiscent of a nightclub. The brand preserves the character of existing buildings while adding bold colors and lighting, mirrors, and neon signs to shape the atmosphere of its workout spaces. Its two clubs in Kyiv and Kharkiv likewise use existing buildings while developing a distinct character for each space.
Smartass Bazhana, located on the left bank of Kyiv, covers 606 square meters and occupies a former pub in the basement of a shopping mall. A curved corridor leading to the main area features a dome covered with light-blocking material, along with neon lighting and mirrors. In the dark passage, light and reflective surfaces add depth and blur the sense of direction, creating an atmosphere that gradually draws visitors in.
Existing railings and tiles were retained, while some surfaces hidden beneath plaster were exposed. Areas where tiles were removed for building services were finished level with concrete, while transitions between different materials were marked with glossy mosaics in the brand colors. In the common area with the reception and mini café, a change in floor level was used to place a sofa on the lower level. The cozy nook created without walls has become particularly popular among visitors. The merchandise display opposite the reception is positioned where staff can easily monitor it while remaining visible along the route to the fitness area. In the corridor connecting the reception and changing rooms, blue and orange, the brand colors, overlap to create a purplish glow. Some walls feature glossy, undulating surfaces that reflect light and add a decorative element.
The club consists of four training rooms for Barre, Boxing, Games, and Cycling, each with a different lighting scheme. Some walls feature works by Ukrainian artists. Mirrors, colored neon signs, and graphic lettering are used along the stairs and corridors. Poured concrete was used in the circulation areas between floors, while concrete planters and LED strip lighting continue the club‘s colors and lighting throughout the space.
The entire first floor Is the only studio with access to natural daylight through windows. Natural wood flooring and bronze-toned mirrors line the space. The tinted mirrors and lighting make the contours of the body appear more defined, while colored lighting, as in the other training spaces, creates a distinct atmosphere.
The new Interior of the old Classical-style building takes a striking turn with colorful neon signs. The rough combination of mosaic tiles and concrete, metal elements, vivid colors, and contrasting textures creates a dynamic fitness environment in contrast to the classical architecture.
Project: Smartass Bazhana / Location: Kyiv, Ukraine / Architect: Smartass Design team / Project team: Kate Kuzmenko, Alla Lytvynenko, Valeriia Dehtiarova / Collaborator: Anastasia Rudyk(artwork) / Use: fitness club / Area: 606m2 / Interior finishing: existing tiles and exposed surfaces, self-leveling concrete flooring, glossy mosaics, galvanized panels / Materials: mirrors, colored and transparent plexiglass, light-tight fabric / Project year: 2024 / Photograph: ©Kateryna Zolotukhina(courtesy of the architect)
