May 2026 . £8 www.paf-media.co.uk Creating spaces that motivate and perform The power of gym design Also in this issue: The digital detox gym Should members switch off? Interview with Granite Leisure The company giving hotel health clubs a second life Future proofing your turf Innovations against climate change
Making public leisure sustainable and building healthier communities. Alliance Leisure are a trusted and experienced leisure development partner, with over 25 years’ experience transforming leisure facilities for local authorities. allianceleisure.co.uk £520m+ investment in local authority leisure 81% of clients choose us for further projects 310+ completed projects Discover our portfolio. development partner #TransformingLeisure Chard Leisure Centre Value: £15.6m Abbey Leisure Centre Value: £3.5m SC2 Value: £17m
paf-media.co.uk 3 leader Guiding the gym journey Layrd Design offers strategic advice for creating wellnessfocused, functional spaces (p 14-17). Editor Helen Adkins Media sales manager Terry Stafford Production Nicola Cann Design Sandra Cid & Gemma England Managing director Toby Filby Publishers Stable Publishing Limited SBC House, Restmor Way, Wallington, Surrey SM6 7AH, England. t. 020 8288 1080 f. 020 8288 1099 e. info@stable-media.co.uk www.paf-media.co.uk The publishers do not necessarily agree with views expressed by contributors and cannot accept responsibility for claims made by manufacturers and authors, nor do they accept any responsibility for any errors in the subject matter of this publication. Designing for health and wellbeing REGARDLESS of size or financial scale, design is increasingly defining how modern gyms and leisure environments perform – not only in terms of aesthetics, but in shaping user behaviour, operational efficiency and long-term commercial value. Across the sector, there is a clear shift towards more integrated, experience-led facilities where spatial planning, sensory design and brand identity work together to create environments that support both wellbeing outcomes and business performance. This issue’s cover feature from Layrd Design (p14) explores how fundamental design principles are being used to reshape the gym experience. As Grace Goddard explains, thoughtful zoning, clear circulation routes and considered spatial sequencing are key to improving accessibility and flow, while also reducing common barriers such as intimidation for new users. Lighting, acoustics and materiality are now central to this approach, with biophilic design and sensory layering used to influence mood, energy and engagement across different training and recovery zones. The feature also underscores the increasing demand for flexibility, with modular studios and adaptable layouts allowing operators to respond to evolving fitness trends while optimising space usage throughout the day. These principles are increasingly being applied beyond traditional leisure centres into broader destination-led developments. Our feature on Koru Health Club (p 20-22) illustrates how brand, architecture and user journey can be fully integrated within a mixed-use environment. Located at the GRIDX development in Wickrange, Luxembourg, this project moves away from conventional gym typologies in favour of a sequenced wellness journey, where fitness, recovery and social spaces are experienced as a continuous flow rather than separate compartments. This reflects a wider trend towards multi-functional health clubs positioned as part of larger lifestyle ecosystems. Alongside this, our interview with the founders of Granite Leisure (p 28) highlights how similar design-led thinking is being applied within the hotel and hospitality sector. Focused on the regeneration of underperforming gym and spa assets, the company is working to reposition these facilities so they better serve both business objectives and community needs. The approach underlines a growing recognition that wellness spaces within hotels are no longer ancillary amenities, but important touchpoints that can enhance guest experience, drive revenue and strengthen local engagement. Taken together, these three perspectives point to a sector undergoing significant evolution. Whether in community leisure centres, destination health clubs or hotel wellness facilities, design is now central to how spaces are conceived, operated and experienced. The most successful projects are those that move beyond isolated functional planning to create cohesive environments, and where design is not simply shaping the look of gyms and wellness spaces, but fundamentally influencing how they perform, connect with users and contribute to wider commercial and social value. Helen Adkins Editor helen.adkins@stable-media.co.uk SUPPORTED BY
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paf-media.co.uk 5 contents paf-media.co.uk inside this issue 07 News • Sport England pilot becomes fully integrated adult social care service • Leisure centre news • Trafford Leisure Centre launches Hydrohex pilot • Work starts on National Institute for Sport and Health • Hyrox standardised conditioning test launched • Parkinson’s UK reopens grants programme 14 Designing the gym journey Grace Goddard of interior designers Layrd Design explains how thoughtful consideration of layout, lighting and sensory stimulation can transform a gym from a functional space into a destination that supports holistic wellbeing. 20 Koru Health Club, Luxembourg At the GRIDX development in Wickrange, Luxembourg, Koru Health Club demonstrates how brand strategy, spatial planning and architectural storytelling can shape integrated wellness environments within mixed-use destinations, reflecting broader shifts in the fitness and wellbeing sector. 24 Roehampton Club refurbishment The refurbishment of Roehampton Club – the private members’ sports and social club in south west London – has transformed a series of hospitality and social spaces, creating a more flexible environment for members. 28 Interview: Granite Leisure PAF editor Helen Adkins speaks with the founders of Scottish leisure and fitness company Granite Leisure about how combining a progressive staffing model with the refurbishment and operation of hotel health clubs and spas is transforming facilities within hospitality destinations. 32 Membership evolution With rising gym participation and evolving consumer expectations, membership programmes have become a defining battleground for gym and leisure operators. We look at what’s available and how operators can future-proof their models. 36 Technology and digital detox in gyms Trend or distraction? As UK gyms and leisure centres evolve, there is growing debate about whether reducing digital distraction could improve the training experience. 40 Interview: Guy Griffiths, GGFitness Launched in March 2026, the HealthSeekers Accelerator Programme is an initiative to help UK leisure operators engage people who don’t identify as gym members to improve their health. Paf editor Helen Adkins met Guy Griffiths, the man behind the scheme, to find out more. 43 Sports pitches: Playing through climate change As climate change drives more extreme weather conditions across the UK, sports pitch innovation is evolving fast. We look at what’s available here and abroad. 48 Playgrounds: Designing play for risk, inclusion and imagination UK playground design is increasingly shaped by sector guidance from bodies such as the Association of Play Industries (API), Play England and RoSPA, which promotes a shift away from equipment-led layouts towards landscape-based environments that balance risk, inclusion and imaginative play. 32 14 20
T: 01322 424445 E: enquiries@ustigate.co.uk W: www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk INCLUSIVE AQUATIC PLAY DESIGN * BUILD * MAINTAIN
A pioneering pilot backed by Sport England has been transformed into a permanent part of adult social care in Essex, following compelling evidence of its impact on health, wellbeing and system change. Reconnect, a countywide prevention service designed and delivered by Sport for Confidence in partnership with Active Essex, is now fully embedded within Essex County Council public health and adult social care services. It evolved from a Sport Englandfunded local delivery pilot launched in 2020 and delivered by Sport for Confidence CIC, known as the prevention and enablement model, which demonstrated up to £58.71 of social value generated for every £1 invested. That evidence gave Essex County Council the confidence to commission Reconnect in 2022 as a long-term, countywide service. Now entering its third year, it forms a core part of the early help and prevention system, signalling a shift away from reactive, crisisled care towards a more preventative, wholesystem approach. Reconnect integrates occupational therapy with person-centred physical activity in community leisure and neighbourhood settings. The model supports adults with disabilities and long-term health conditions to carry out meaningful everyday activities, improving independence, confidence and social connection. Between April 2024 and January 2025, the service supported 1,348 new referrals and recorded more than 63,000 attendances. Outcomes include a 33% increase in social connection, alongside significant improvements in people’s ability to do the things that matter to them. Levels of choice and control over daily life have also risen, while 98.8% of participants rate the service as good or very good. A defining feature of Reconnect is its supported pathway into activity. Individuals receive an initial occupational therapy assessment and are then guided into appropriate community provision, reducing the burden of navigating services. As a result, 91% successfully engage with ongoing local support. Reconnect is delivered by Sport for Confidence in partnership with Active Essex and a network of community providers including 3 leisure providers – Everyone Active, 1Life and Freedom Leisure – plus support and delivery from Colchester City Council, Tendring District Council, Castlepoint Borough Council, Chelmsford City Council, Braintree District Council, Basildon Borough Council, Brentwood Borough Council and Uttlesford District Council. Lyndsey Barrett, founder and lead occupational therapist at Sport for Confidence, said: ‘Reconnect is about enabling people to live the lives they choose. By combining occupational therapy with meaningful physical activity, we help people rebuild confidence, capability and connection in ways that matter to them.’ Lisa Dodd-Mayne, executive director of Partnerships and Place at Sport England, added: ‘What started as a test-and-learn pilot is now embedded in public health and adult social care. It shows what’s possible when strong evidence, local leadership and placebased investment come together.’ www.sportforconfidence.com Sport England pilot becomes fully integrated adult social care service paf-media.co.uk 7 news
8 paf-media.co.uk news CONSTRUCTION has begun on a new leisure centre and healthcare hub at Bransbury Park in Portsmouth, marking a significant investment in community health and wellbeing in the south-east of the city. Willmott Dixon is delivering the two-storey scheme for Portsmouth City Council via the Southern Construction Framework, with completion scheduled for winter 2027. The development will include a 25-metre fourlane swimming pool, learner pool, 65-station gym and two exercise studios, alongside primary care facilities. Outdoor improvements will also see a new artificial turf pitch and floodlit multi-use games area with free public access created to the north of the site. The project forms part of the council’s wider £40m-plus investment in sport and leisure facilities over the past decade. Cllr Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, said the start on site brings the city ‘one step closer to delivering a modern, accessible facility with swimming, fitness and healthcare provision’, while acknowledging there may be some temporary disruption during construction. The scheme is being delivered in partnership with Portsmouth City Council, GT3 Architects, Mace and the NHS. Community engagement is already under way, with pupils from Milton Park Primary School contributing artwork for the site hoardings. Leisure centre news Work begins for Cascades Leisure Centre WORK is set to begin this spring on Gravesend’s new Cascades Leisure Centre, marking a key milestone in the borough’s regeneration plans. Gravesham Borough Council and Willmott Dixon are moving ahead with early site activity ahead of construction of the new low-carbon facility. Demolition of the existing ageing centre is due to start in early spring. The replacement leisure centre will feature a 25m pool, 17m learner pool, aqua play and flume area, as well as spectator seating, a six-court sports hall, soft play, community rooms and a café, with a focus on both regional events and family use. Cllr John Burden, leader of Gravesham Borough Council, said the project marked ‘a landmark day for the borough’, adding that the current facility ‘is at the end of its natural life and a modern, energy-efficient replacement is needed’. Lauren Sullivan MP (pictured) said: ‘After a long journey it was great to see the start of this fantastic work on a brand-new regional sports and leisure centre for the people of Gravesham and beyond. This has been achieved through a working partnership between Gravesham Borough Council and the Government, who have funded this. With Willmott Dixon as the construction partners, I look forward to seeing the project grow and develop into a fantastic community facility for the borough.’ Willmott Dixon will also deliver social value as part of the project, including local employment, training and community engagement. The new leisure centre is expected to complete in 2028. Bransbury Park, Portsmouth
paf-media.co.uk 9 news Hydrohex launched at Trafford Leisure TRAFFORD Leisure has launched a pilot of a virtual aqua fitness system at Stretford Leisure Centre, aiming to expand pool capacity and address the ongoing shortage of qualified aquatic instructors. The 12-month trial of Hydrohex technology will see automated, on-demand classes introduced alongside traditional instructorled sessions, allowing for a more consistent and varied timetable. The system uses high-definition screens and a bespoke media player to deliver more than 100 pre-recorded workouts, which are stored offline to ensure reliability without the risk of connectivity issues. Since installation, the centre has increased its aqua programme from two to seven weekly sessions, including five virtual classes. The move is designed to make better use of off-peak pool time while reducing the risk of cancellations. Fran Cunliffe, general manager at Stretford Leisure Centre, said the technology ‘offers something different for our community’ and enables the facility to provide additional water-based workouts without increasing staffing. Hydrohex classes cover a range of formats including cardio, strength and high-intensity sessions, targeting both traditional aqua users and newer audiences. Trafford Leisure will monitor usage and feedback throughout 2026 to assess the potential for rolling the system out more widely across its sites in Greater Manchester. Work starts on National Institute for Sport and Health CONSTRUCTION on the new National Institute for Sport and Health (NISH) has officially commenced. The four-storey flagship development located at the entrance to Swansea Bay Sports Park is being delivered for Swansea University and is funded through the Swansea Bay City Deal, with support from Swansea Council and local health boards. Multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard has been appointed as project manager, working alongside architects Powell Dobson and main contractor Willmott Dixon. Designed as a first-of-its-kind facility in the UK, NISH will bring together public, private and academic partners within a single innovation ecosystem. The institute will focus on accelerating growth in sport technology, medical technology and healthcare innovation, while supporting regional economic development, job creation and inward investment across the Swansea Bay City Region. The building will have a wide range of specialist accommodation, including collaborative workspaces, an innovation centre for commercial partners, and seminar and teaching spaces, plus media studios, sports technology laboratories and demonstration classrooms. Professor Keith Lloyd, NISH director said: ‘The National Institute for Sport and Health will help put Swansea – and Wales – on the global map for cutting-edge research, product development and community health innovation. It will serve as a catalyst for discovery, investment and improved wellbeing.’ The project is expected to generate over 1,000 jobs in the Swansea area and will be worth over £150 million to the regional economy by 2033.
Turn loss-making poolside retail into profitable revenue space For many leisure centres and holiday parks, poolside retail remains an under-leveraged commercial asset. With the right product mix, strategic merchandising, and customer proposition, it can quickly become a high-performing revenue stream. Splash About works with operators to transform under-performing poolside retail into commercially effective spaces. Its proven approach consistently delivers measurable uplifts; driving footfall, improving customer dwell time, enhancing the family experience and unlocking greater spend from customer engagement. The results are measurable, at Haven Primrose Valley, poolside retail sales increased by 27% in just six weeks* following the introduction of a smarter retail strategy and optimised product approach. To discuss how your organisation could improve its retail performance and unlock additional revenue opportunities, contact info@splashabout.com or 01472 236465 www.splashabout.com *Comparison with the same period in the previous year.
paf-media.co.uk 11 news Hyrox standardised conditioning test launched OUTPUT Sports has been named the official testing and benchmarking partner for Hyrox365, as part of a new collaboration aimed at bringing greater structure and data into performance training for Hyrox athletes. The partnership includes the launch of the Hyrox Conditioning Test (HCT), a 34-minute standardised assessment designed to measure key race-day attributes such as aerobic capacity, muscular endurance and power. Developed for use in gym environments, the test can be delivered in rolling heats, allowing facilities to scale sessions while maintaining consistency. Results are captured via the Output Sports platform to generate a HYROX Conditioning Score, giving coaches a clear benchmark to track progress and inform training programmes. The initiative addresses a gap in the rapidly growing Hyrox sector, where performance has largely been assessed through race results or varied metrics rather than a consistent testing framework. Martin O’Reilly, founder of Output Sports, said the partnership marked ‘an incredible milestone’ in the company’s aim to make elite-level sports science more accessible, adding that early testing suggests improvements in score could translate into faster race times. Douglas Gremmen, chief growth officer at Hyrox, said the collaboration would help bring ‘elite-level training into everyday environments’, supporting a global network of gyms and coaches. The Hyrox Conditioning Test is now available to verified coaches and training facilities through the HYROX365 platform and will be showcased at the Hyrox Coaching Summit in London. Parkinson’s UK reopens grants programme PARKINSON’S UK has reopened its Physical Activity Grants programme for a sixth consecutive year, offering fresh funding to support people living with Parkinson’s to stay active and connected. The scheme, which launches in March and runs through to the end of 2026, invites applications from community groups, sports clubs and activity providers with a link to Parkinson’s. Grants ranging from £500 to £3,000 are available, with a renewed focus on reaching more inactive or lowermobility participants. Since its introduction in 2021, the programme has awarded £936,000 to 392 projects across the UK. Funded activities have included everything from walking football and table tennis to Zumba and assisted rowing, helping participants improve both physical and mental wellbeing. This year, the charity hopes to see even more innovative ideas that encourage movement and social connection. Applicants can also access guidance through free ‘Meet the Funder’ webinars held throughout the year. Roma Hashim, physical activity grants manager at Parkinson’s UK, said the programme continues to highlight the ‘creativity, commitment and compassion’ of community organisations. We’re looking forward to funding new opportunities that help people build confidence, move more and feel connected,’ she said. One recent recipient, the Afghan and Central Asian Association in Birmingham, used funding to deliver inclusive Zumba sessions tailored for people with varying mobility levels. The initiative has helped participants improve their health while fostering a supportive, culturally sensitive community environment. For more information about the Physical Activity Grants programme, contact physicalactivity@parkinsons.org.uk or visit https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/ information/treatments/physical-activityand-exercise/grants-for-providers. To register for a Meet the Funder webinar, complete the registration form and select your preferred date: https://bit.ly/MeettheFunders
12 paf-media.co.uk preview paf Ireland 2026 A new dedicated forum for professionals across Ireland’s sport, leisure and play sectors launches this September, bringing together key decision-makers for two days of networking, insight and collaboration at The Grand Hotel, Malahide, Dublin A major new networking event for professionals across the sports, physical activity and play industries is set to launch in Ireland this September. Hosted by Stable Events, paf Ireland 2026 will take place at The Grand Hotel, Malahide, Dublin, bringing together key decision-makers for two days of networking, insight and industry collaboration in what is the first event of its kind in the country. Designed specifically for those involved in the planning, design, delivery and operation of physical activity facilities across the sport, leisure, recreation and play sectors in Ireland, the event brings together a broad mix of stakeholders. Attendees will include operators, local authorities, project managers, architects, contractors, manufacturers and service providers, alongside senior industry professionals shaping the future of the sector. The programme will feature a combination of seminar sessions, prearranged 1:1 meetings and structured networking opportunities, enabling participants to connect with the right people, share expertise and explore new commercial partnerships. The theme This year’s theme will be The Future of Physical Activity in Ireland – European Ideas, Irish Opportunities. We will be asking, if physical activity is one of the most powerful tools for improving health, wellbeing and community cohesion, what can Ireland learn from the most forward-thinking models emerging across Europe? This year’s programme will explore exactly that, with a strong line-up of speakers and panellists, alongside leading voices from across the wider sector. How it works for buyer delegates As a buyer at the forum, you will benefit from a highly structured and time-efficient experience: • Select who you would like to meet in advance of the event. Suppliers will also request meetings with you, with your preferences taking priority to ensure relevance and value. • Hold focused, one-to-one meetings with suppliers, giving you the information you need to make informed decisions and continue conversations beyond the initial introduction. • Gain access to a full seminar programme delivered by leading industry experts. • Build meaningful relationships and expand your professional network within the sector. Alongside the formal meetings programme, there will be a full schedule of networking opportunities, including coffee breaks, lunches and drinks receptions. The event will culminate in a gala dinner on 15 September, offering further opportunities to connect with peers, suppliers and operators in a more relaxed setting. Your complimentary stay includes 1–2 nights’ accommodation, as well as all meals, drinks reception and the gala dinner. For speaker or buyer enquiries, please contact Conor Sheehan, head of Commercial at conor@stable-events.co.uk For supplier enquiries, please contact Julian Walter, head of Sales at julian@stable-events.co.uk paf Ireland 2026 15–16 September 2026 The Grand Hotel Malahide, Dublin a brand-new paf forum launches in Ireland!
THE flow of a facility dictates how members interact with the space. Clear zoning – dividing areas into cardio, free weights, functional training and recovery – ensures seamless movement and helps users locate equipment efficiently. Strategic pathways reduce congestion by placing high-traffic zones away from narrow corridors, while modular studios allow spaces to adapt between classes, virtual sessions and community events. Entry and first impressions are critical. Open-plan receptions with welcoming atmospheres reduce ‘gymtimidation’, while smart technology can streamline the start of the member journey. Transitional spaces, such as convenient changing facilities and secure storage, support pre- and postworkout habits, making the experience both functional and comfortable. Sensory stimulation through lighting and atmosphere Lighting is one of the most powerful tools in shaping mood and behaviour in fitness spaces. Natural light and biophilic design, including skylights, floor-to-ceiling windows and greenery, boost alertness, reduce stress and enhance engagement. Colour psychology influences energy levels – blues improve focus and alertness, while yellows create comfort and relaxation. Atmospheric lighting can differentiate zones, so brighter, more colourful lighting energises high-intensity areas, while softer, indirect lighting promotes calm in yoga and stretching zones. Wireless systems allow flexible control, adapting spaces for different classes or moods. Halo mirror lighting creates a flattering, even glow that reduces harsh reflections, enhancing both appearance and ambience. Acoustics and comfort Acoustic design is a crucial but often overlooked element in fitness environments. Without proper sound management, noise from free weights, group classes and cardio equipment can create an overwhelming atmosphere that impacts comfort and usability. Strategic zoning and acoustic treatments help contain sound within highenergy areas while protecting quieter spaces such as studios, recovery zones and social lounges. Materials such as acoustic ceiling panels, soft furnishings, wall treatments and specialist flooring can all contribute to a more balanced sound environment, which can improve concentration, comfort and the overall member experience. Biophilic elements and wellbeing Biophilic design is becoming a key consideration in modern fitness environments, helping transform gyms into spaces that support both physical and mental wellbeing. By incorporating natural light, greenery, organic materials and views to Guiding the gym journey In modern fitness and wellness facilities, design is far more than aesthetics – it shapes the user experience, influencing mood, engagement and performance. Grace Goddard, marketing executive at interior designers Layrd Design explains 14 paf-media.co.uk gym design Biophilic elements and natural materials at East Grinstead Sports Club Biophilic elements at Instagym, London
the outdoors, facilities can create environments that feel more uplifting, restorative and engaging. Natural daylight has been shown to improve alertness, regulate circadian rhythms and boost energy levels, helping members feel more motivated and prepared for exercise. Features such as skylights, floorto-ceiling glazing and glass partitions can maximise natural light while reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Greenery and planting also contribute to a calmer, more restorative atmosphere, particularly in recovery, stretching and wellness zones where relaxation is a priority. Natural materials such as timber, stone and textured finishes help soften the oftenindustrial feel of gym environments, creating Case study: Macclesfield Leisure Centre Layrd delivered a transformative interior design scheme for Everybody Health & Leisure's Macclesfield Leisure Centre in December 2024. At the heart of the design was Layrd’s ‘box concept’ – a room-within-a-room approach that creates distinct training zones without the need for solid walls. This allows for separation of workout types while keeping the space open, inclusive and visually connected. With such a diverse user base, from teenagers to over-50s, ensuring the space feels accessible, comfortable and intuitive was essential. Deep blue contrasts with the centre’s signature orange, alongside warm metal laminates and textured finishes, elevated the look and feel. Sterling Turf created bespoke turf flooring with branded detailing, and original brick walls were enhanced with lighting treatments to modernise the space without losing its character. Navigation was a key design principle. Chevron lighting strips, ceiling features and sweeping curved flooring guide members through the facility, naturally dividing zones and improving flow. Cardio machines were positioned near the entrance to create a positive first impression, while the relocated free weights area now benefits from improved acoustics and a striking overhead baffle design that absorbs noise and defines the space. Macclesfield now offers a boutique-style experience, demonstrating how, with the right investment, public leisure centres can become stylish wellness centres for the whole community. Since reopening in December 2024, the centre has seen a 10% increase in membership. paf-media.co.uk 15 gym design Layrd’s ‘box concept’ creates distinct training zones at Macclesfield Leisure Centre
a warmer and more welcoming experience. Beyond aesthetics, biophilic elements can improve mood, reduce stress and encourage members to spend more time in the space, supporting stronger engagement, satisfaction and long-term retention. As fitness spaces continue to evolve into holistic wellness destinations, biophilic design is no longer just a visual enhancement, but an essential part of creating healthier, higherperforming environments. Flexibility and future-proofing As fitness trends continue to evolve, flexibility in design has become essential. Modular studios, movable partitions and adaptable equipment layouts allow operators to reconfigure spaces quickly in response to changing member demand, emerging workout trends or new programming formats. Whether transitioning from a spin class to a weight training session or accommodating community events, flexible design ensures facilities remain relevant, efficient and commercially competitive. Future-proofing through adaptable layouts also reduces the need for costly refurbishments over time. The social dimension Today’s fitness facilities are increasingly designed as social destinations rather than purely workout spaces. Integrating cafés, lounges, recovery bars and informal seating areas encourages members to spend more 16 paf-media.co.uk gym design Natural daylight has been shown to improve alertness, regulate circadian rhythms and boost energy levels, helping members feel more motivated and prepared for exercise Biophilic elements at East Grinstead Sports Club
2. 3. 4. 5. paf-media.co.uk 17 gym design time on site, supporting stronger community engagement and increasing dwell time. These hospitality-led spaces help make facilities feel less intimidating, particularly for new users, while fostering a sense of belonging and lifestyle integration. For owners and operators, this creates opportunities for enhanced member retention and additional revenue through food, beverage and retail offerings. By considering layout, flow and lighting, gyms, studios and leisure facilities can become spaces that are welcoming, flexible and engaging. www.layrddesign.co.uk 1. Layrd’s five top tips Sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s shaping the future of fitness. Thoughtful design can reduce environmental impact, lower operational costs and enhance member experience, all while strengthening your brand’s reputation. Here are five design-led ways to make your fitness space more sustainable. 1. Smart energy integration Beyond lighting, sustainable gyms are designed to use energy intelligently. Try incorporating solar panels, high-efficiency HVAC systems and thermal zoning that adapts to occupancy. Strategic placement of windows and shading can maximise daylight while reducing heat gain, lowering energy consumption without compromising comfort or style. 2. Water and resource efficiency Sustainable design optimises water use through low-flow fixtures, greywater recycling and drought-resistant indoor planting. Thoughtful placement of showers, sinks and plant features ensures efficiency while creating a pleasant, wellnessfocused environment for members. 3. Material choice as a design statement Select recycled, low-VOC and sustainably sourced materials for flooring, walls and finishes. Incorporate living walls, indoor plants and natural textures to create biophilic, healthy interiors that are both visually striking and environmentally responsible. 4. Flexible and future-proof spaces Design with adaptability in mind: modular studios, movable partitions and longlasting equipment reduce waste and allow spaces to evolve with trends. This approach minimises refurbishments, keeps interiors fresh and lowers environmental impact. 5. Designing for member wellbeing and engagement Sustainability enhances the user experience. Natural light, greenery, clean air and tactile, sustainable materials improve mood, engagement and satisfaction. Members connect more deeply to spaces that reflect environmental responsibility, supporting loyalty and long-term engagement. Our quick take: Sustainable design is a must. It creates win-win spaces that are good for the environment, for the business and for the people using them. Thoughtful choices in lighting, materials, water and equipment deliver a healthier, more enjoyable and futureproof gym experience. Incorporating outdoor views can support both physical and mental wellbeing Natural materials such as timber, stone and textured finishes are used to soften the industrial feel at Instagym, London
18 paf-media.co.uk preview paf UK 2026 The UK’s leading physical activity facilities forum returns this October, bringing together sector leaders, innovators and decision-makers to explore the design, build, delivery and operation of venues can deliver healthier, more active communities across the nation paf UK 2026 takes place at the worldrenowned The Belfry Hotel & Resort, set to welcome professionals from across the UK’s sport, leisure, recreation and physical activity sectors for two days of focused networking, discussion and industry insight. This year’s event brings together a carefully curated audience of operators, local authority representatives, architects and designers, as well as contractors, consultants, manufacturers and service providers. Across a structured programme of 1:1 meetings, seminars and informal networking, delegates will have the opportunity to build meaningful connections and explore new approaches to facility development. This year’s speaker theme, Facilities for a More Active Nation, will focus on how the UK’s physical activity sector can rethink, redesign and repurpose spaces to better meet the needs of modern communities. Bringing together leading voices from across the industry, the event will showcase forward-thinking facility models that are accessible, inclusive, financially sustainable and designed to increase participation across all ages and abilities. Through a combination of insight-led presentations and real-world case studies, speakers will explore how today’s design and delivery decisions can shape healthier, more active communities for the future. How it works As a buyer at paf UK 2026, you will receive complimentary accommodation for one or two nights and all meals, in addition to drinks receptions, networking opportunities and gala/networking events. You will also benefit from a structured and efficient experience designed around your priorities, where you can: • Pre-select who you would like to meet ahead of the event. While suppliers also request meetings with you, your preferences take priority to ensure relevance and value in every interaction. • Take part in carefully scheduled 1:1 meetings, giving you focused time with each supplier to gather the information needed to progress discussions beyond the event. • Attend a full programme of seminar sessions delivered by leading industry experts and practitioners. • Network with key stakeholders across the sector in a professional, focused environment. As a supplier, you’ll benefit from a tailored schedule of one-to-one meetings, an abundance of networking opportunities and an all-inclusive package of accommodation meals, plus an exclusive event directory, limited competition and access to informative speaker sessions. For speaker or buyer enquiries, please contact Conor Sheehan – head of Commercial: conor@stable-events.co.uk For supplier enquiries, please contact Julian – head of Sales: julian@stable-events.co.uk A hole-in-one networking event For the golfers in our community, we are offering you the opportunity to play a round of golf on the day before the event on 30 September. It’s another great way to informally network, and includes evening buyer/golf players drinks reception and accommodation. paf UK 2026 1–2 October 2026 with a drinks reception on 30 September The Belfry Hotel & Resort
WINNER! 2025 2021
THE Koru Health Club in Luxembourg, part of the wider GRIDX development in Wickrange, is a recent wellness project in which zynk Design was responsible for developing the brand identity alongside the interior and experiential design approach. The scope extended beyond conventional gym fit-out, covering brand positioning, spatial organisation and member journey design. Rather than operating as a standard fitness facility, the space was developed as a brand-led wellness environment combining fitness, recovery, retail and social functions within a single spatial framework. The result is a 27,000 sq. ft club that integrates multiple uses associated with contemporary health club models. The concept is grounded in the name ‘Koru’, derived from the Māori spiral symbol associated with growth and unfolding life. This reference informed both the brand narrative and the spatial logic of the club, with the idea of progression and movement used to structure how users navigate the space. The expansive facility is meticulously zoned to balance high-performance energy with restorative wellness. The active floor features a large main gym, a dedicated personal training studio and a basketball court, all overlooked by a mezzanine-level café that serves as a vantage point for the activity below. To complete the user journey, the layout transitions into premium recovery zones, including luxury male and female changing suites, private treatment rooms for wellness therapy, and a separate, secluded spa. This sense of continuity is supported through the interior design language. Curved forms, softened junctions and sculptural 20 paf-media.co.uk project Koru Health Club Designing a wellness journey within a mixed-use destination At the GRIDX development in Wickrange, Luxembourg, zynk Design has delivered a health club concept that sits beyond the traditional gym model. Through brand strategy, spatial planning and architectural storytelling, Koru Health Club reflects wider trends towards integrated wellness environments within mixed-use destinations
paf-media.co.uk 21 project reception elements reflect the spiral reference, while continuous lighting strategies are used to reduce visual separation between areas. The overall approach departs from more rigid, rectilinear gym layouts, resulting in a softer spatial reading more commonly associated with hospitality environments. Flowing lines of light glide alongside exposed mechanical services. This rhythmic interplay is softened by a sophisticated colour palette of warm tones punctuated by bold maroon accents, while integrated digital elements add a layer of futuristic interactivity to the otherwise organic flow of the space. The training provision is embedded within this wider framework. Co-branded Nike functional training areas are positioned alongside Technogym equipment ranges including Excite Live, Selection 700 and Pure Strength, as well as BioCircuit digital training systems. These elements are treated as part of an integrated performance environment rather than separate product zones, supporting a combined training and lifestyle setting. As part of the GRIDX mixed-use development, Koru also sits alongside motorsport, retail, and food and beverage functions. The design therefore needed to operate within a broader destination context while maintaining a distinct identity focused on wellness. The solution aligns the club visually and materially with the wider development while retaining its own spatial narrative. The project reflects a wider shift in health club design towards multi-functional wellness spaces that combine exercise, recovery and social engagement. In this context, zynk Design’s work on Koru
22 paf-media.co.uk project illustrates how brand development and spatial planning can be used together to structure user experience within larger mixed-use environments. Within GRIDX, Koru functions as part of a broader leisure and lifestyle offer, contributing to the integration of wellness facilities into destination-led developments where fitness is one of several interconnected components. Pola Giorgetti, CEO of Koru Health Club said: ‘The team at zynk understood our vision and translated it into something even more powerful than we imagined. They listened carefully to our brief and designed a gym and wellness space with real wow factor. They also created the brand identity, using a bold colour palette, and integrated it seamlessly into the interior to create a cohesive and elevated experience. The result is a space that feels distinctive and in harmony with the energy of the GRID X development.’ Project: Koru Health Club, Wickrange, Luxembourg Opened: January 2026 Designers: zync Design, www.zynkdesign.com Client: Pola Giorgetti Suppliers used: Technogym, Nike The project reflects a wider shift in health club design towards multi-functional wellness spaces that combine exercise, recovery and social engagement
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THE £3 million refurbishment at Roehampton Club has delivered a comprehensive redesign of the private members’ club’s principal hospitality and social spaces, creating a series of updated interiors intended to support a broader range of member activity across dining, events and informal use. Completed in August 2025 by DLSM Studio, the project includes the redevelopment of the Members’ Bar, and the introduction of a new bistro setting, as well as the refurbishment of four function rooms, a new Garden Room Bar and a redesigned south-facing terrace. Founded in 1901, Roehampton Club occupies 40 hectares and offers golf, tennis, croquet, swimming and fitness facilities, alongside a significant social and hospitality programme for more than 5,000 members. The latest refurbishment focused on modernising communal areas used for food and beverage service, and events, with the aim of improving how those spaces function throughout the day. The concept takes its cues from the club’s landscape setting, using natural materials, muted colours and soft forms to create continuity between the interior spaces and the surrounding grounds. This design language has been applied across the bar, lounge, event and terrace areas to establish cohesion throughout the hospitality spaces while allowing each area to retain its own identity. The Members Bar At the centre of the redevelopment is the Members’ Bar, which has been reconfigured to support a variety of uses, from informal daytime meetings to evening drinks and social gatherings. The revised layout combines bar seating with lounge-style zones to create a space that can accommodate multiple forms of occupation within one open-plan setting. Material choices play an important role in shaping the atmosphere of the bar. Cipollino Verde marble countertops have been combined with handmade Spanish ceramic tiles and a ribbed walnut bar frontage, introducing texture and contrast while maintaining a natural palette. Lighting in antique brass and glass has been layered throughout the space to create warmth and define the different zones. Around the main bar, upholstered lounge seating in earthy tones has been arranged 24 paf-media.co.uk project The refurbishment of Roehampton Club, the private members’ sports and social club in south west London, has transformed a series of hospitality and social spaces, creating a more flexible environment for members while drawing on the heritage and landscape of the site Roehampton Club –reimagined ‘References to the club’s former polo lawns informed the design narrative, linking the updated space to the wider heritage of the site’
paf-media.co.uk 25 project alongside timber joinery to create smaller areas for informal use. These interventions allow the room to function as both a central social destination and a quieter lounge space, broadening the role of the bar within the wider hospitality offer. The adjoining Polo Room has been redesigned to provide a flexible setting for daytime and evening use. During the day, the room can accommodate smaller functions or provide an informal workspace for members. In the evening, it can transition into a dining space for the club’s bistro offer. The interior treatment creates a warmer atmosphere that distinguishes the room from the main bar while maintaining consistency with the wider scheme. References to the club’s former polo lawns informed the design narrative, linking the updated space to the wider heritage of the site. This flexibility allows the same room to support several uses over the course of the day, expanding the operational potential of the hospitality areas without requiring dedicated single-purpose space. The Garden Room Bar A further addition to the social areas is the new Garden Room Bar, which extends the club’s food and beverage offer. The space follows the same material palette as the main bar, using timber, and ceramic and brass details to retain visual consistency with the wider refurbishment. Additional detailing, including timber beading and wallpapered ceiling recesses, gives the room its own identity while maintaining continuity with the adjoining areas. This creates an alternative hospitality space that can support smaller gatherings or operate alongside the adjacent event spaces. The refurbishment also includes the complete reconfiguration of four function rooms. The interior finishes within the function rooms continue the landscape-led design approach seen throughout the redevelopment. Bespoke carpets reference the grounds surrounding the clubhouse, while green-painted ceilings reflect the club’s golf course setting. The Polo Room Lounge within the Members’ Bar Members’ Bar
Outdoor areas Outside, the south-facing terrace has been redesigned as an extension of the internal hospitality spaces, creating additional capacity for outdoor dining and events. Timber decking, striped awnings and modular planting have been introduced to define the space and strengthen the relationship between the terrace and the surrounding landscape. The use of natural finishes mirrors the material palette used internally, helping to create continuity between the indoor and outdoor hospitality areas. Recessed lighting has been integrated into the terrace design to support evening use while minimising light spill into the surrounding environment. Overall, the result of the club’s refurbishment is a series of connected hospitality spaces that expand the club’s capacity for social and event use while reinforcing the qualities that have defined the venue for more than a century. 26 paf-media.co.uk project At a glance Location: Roehampton Club, SW London Completion: August 2025 Project value: £3 million Interior design: DLSM Studio Main contractor: JW Cannon Consultant team: JS Associates Club size: 40 hectares Membership: 5,000+ members Lounge within the Members’ Bar Terrace area
Q 28 paf-media.co.uk interview Founded in 2023, Granite Leisure is a Scottish leisure and fitness company founded by Doni Thomson and Aidan Robertson, combining a progressive staffing model with the refurbishment and operation of health clubs and hotel spas. paf editor Helen Adkins spoke to them to find out more Doni: We started Granite Leisure two and a half years ago. Aidan and I have worked in the gym sector for a number of years. Our passion is fitness and health, but we had always wanted to run our own business and do something a little different. We wanted to start a company that did staffing differently from what we see across a lot of the industry. I also worked as a PT when I first started out, across a number of different gyms. There are rental models where they charge you a lot of money to rent the space, or commission structures where they take most of the client fee and you don’t get much. We felt PTs were being taken advantage of in the industry. Aidan: One of the big things is that PTs can be amazing PTs, but they might not be good salespeople. They might be the friendliest and nicest, but having that conversation of ‘do you want to pay for my services?’ is very difficult for some people because their initial goal is to help people and improve their lives. It almost feels cheeky saying, ‘but give me money to do it’. The last time Doni and I spoke about this, there was a poll that said the average PT career is only seven months. These people are paying thousands to do the course, sometimes spending years at college, and then seven months later it’s gone. It’s partly the employment model. There’s not much of a guaranteed base in most of these places, and in some cases none at all. We didn’t think the industry should be treating its staff as its biggest customer. We wanted to do things differently and hoped to disrupt the industry a bit with our employment model. What we decided to do was give people a real career in fitness. They can come in and work for us on a contract basis, whether part time or full time, and they can train in our gym facilities for zero rent as an employee perk. That gives them the ability to develop their craft, progress as a person and build their client base if they want, without dropping out of the industry so quickly. We’re only a tiny company at the moment, but hopefully we can make a positive change. That’s one of our main aims. Are you developing your own gym facilities as well as refurbishing hotel-based gyms? Doni: What we do is refurbish, but we also operate. We go in and either lease the health club from the hotel – meaning the gym and pool – and we pay the hotel a fixed rate while we run the business there and sell memberships. Or we do third-party operations, where we charge a fixed fee to the hotel and sell memberships on behalf of the hotel, so the money and profit go to the hotel as they would with any other department. We also do consultancy on behalf of the hotel, advising on equipment investment, systems, health and safety, risk assessments and so on. The bulk of our business is operating the facilities, selling the memberships and employing the staff. Aidan: On leased sites, staff become employees straight away. We either TUPE them over or hire them new, so it’s Granite Leisure Sauna at Aberdeen Altens Health Club
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