The third outpost of the upscale fitness concept BXR London, BXR City spans 9,000 square feet across the 22 Bishopgate development, offering a sleek, holistic athletic destination in the form of a boxing gym. The fitness studio was designed by London-based Bergman Design House and will be open exclusively to members of the BXR London fitness program.
“At BXR City, we’ve fused the signature aspects of the original Marylebone site with an industrial-chic aesthetic full of unexpected touches,” says Bergman Design cofounder Marie Soliman. “We’ve contrasted rough concrete paneling and exposed structures with energizing neon lighting and a rich blend of backlit dark-tinted mirrors, bronze, and brass trim accents.”
Raw Industrial Forms Offer a Rugged Landscape for Training
Much of the gym maintains a markedly industrial aesthetic as it overlooks the London skyline, 400 feet above the ground level. With exposed I-Beams, unfinished concrete and the ductwork and piping of building systems running overhead, the space embraces boxing’s raw aesthetics, while also taking artful nods towards its cultural roots. Murals depicting the faces of famous boxing athletes, such as the great Mohammed Ali, run along the wall, drawing guest eyes to the central fixture of the gym—the tallest climbing wall in London, standing at 20 feet.
Contrasting elements are either tucked away or blend in with the surrounding structural components, yet still make their presence known in the environment. Overhead, architectural lighting glows with a soft light so as not to create distracting reflections off the heavily glazed façade, while still providing an energetic atmosphere to the gym floor.
In addition to its core boxing focus, the studio houses yoga and Pilates studios, providing a slower pace to the otherwise high-energy flow. There are also designated strength and conditioning facilities for a well-rounded fitness routine for members at the facility.
For more stories on fitness centers, you can read through our articles on Jean Nouvel’s work on 53 West 53 or the alpine-inspired Arkose Pont de Sèvres climbing facility.