Building a gym 450 km away is one thing. Doing it for first-time builders who live another 500 km inland? That’s another.

Travis Stolk and Whetu Austin had already opened a gym before, but this was their first time taking a space from start to finish. They had the vision, but little experience navigating commercial leasing, fit-outs, or the approvals process. We stepped in to guide them through it all, from lease negotiations to building approvals and everything in between.

Before even setting foot on-site, we used council archives and satellite imagery to piece together the existing structure. The former second-hand dealer had left behind a chaotic maze of rooms—some seemingly untouched for years. After making the trip to survey and document existing conditions, we stripped it back in the BIM model, planned demolition works, and reconfigured the layout to create a functional and logical space.

Beyond the design, we helped helped make sure their budget went where it mattered. We resolved a significant energy compliance issue, avoiding the enormous cost of insulating the entire 2,000m²+ building. By applying passive design principles and an in-depth knowledge of Section J of the building code, we developed a solution that kept the budget in check while ensuring the right areas were properly insulated.

We also reconfigured the amenities with minimal disruption to the existing under-slab plumbing and redesigned the car parking to meet Australian standards. Throughout the build, Travis and Whetu leaned on us for advice, running costs past us to assess their fairness and whether the work was actually necessary.

The design itself was kept clean and impactful. A gym doesn’t need much in the way of embellishment, so we let the branding drive the aesthetic. Line markings across the existing weathered concrete floors and hefty structural columns created visual interest and tied into the gym’s identity.

Equipment layouts were carefully planned to maximise space, and we incorporated zones for retail at waiting areas and contract sign-up desks—small but crucial details that improve flow and boost impulse sales.

Our renderings and flythroughs allowed them to promote the gym well before opening, generating interest and momentum. The space turned out as planned—because, as always, people were relying on our drawings to be right.

Travis and Whetu now come to us when they have a new concept that needs planning or direction. When communication is candid, clear, and no-nonsense, location doesn’t matter.

Photos: Life Fitness