"The refurbishment has completely elevated our training space. Members love the new layout, and the expanded free weights area has made a huge difference to the overall experience."
— Brio Ellesmere Port
In 2024, Gym Gear returned to Ellesmere Port to lead a full-scale refurbishment of the facility’s fitness suite. The project centred on expanding the free weights area and reworking the overall layout to create a more open, balanced, and comfortable environment for members.
Every part of the space was reconsidered – from airflow and accessibility to training flow and visual design – to ensure the new layout supported all training styles while maintaining a cohesive, modern look.
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The Challenge
The original layout had become restrictive, particularly around the free weights section, where peak times often led to overcrowding. The goal was to modernise the space, improve accessibility, and create clearer separation between cardio, strength, and functional zones.
The new design also needed to enhance member comfort and safety while maintaining a sense of openness and community across the gym floor.
The Solution
Working closely with the client, our in-house design team developed a layout that aligned with Gym Gear’s four pillars of design:
Training environment – adopting an open-plan design to improve airflow, visibility, and lighting.
Member progression – expanding the free weights zone to accommodate more users and a wider range of abilities.
Community and connection – ensuring smooth transitions between zones to encourage interaction and shared use.
Training diversity – balancing cardio, strength, and functional spaces for a complete training experience.
Equipment was repositioned to maximise available floor space, and new flooring was installed to support high-impact activity and reduce noise levels.
The Result
The refurbished Ellesmere Port gym now offers a smoother, more enjoyable experience for members. The expanded free weights area has become a key attraction, supporting varied workouts and longer training sessions. Circulation and comfort have improved across the entire facility, creating a gym that feels more inviting and efficient.
Member feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, praising the upgraded layout and refreshed appearance. The project stands as a clear example of how thoughtful design and zoning can elevate performance, usability, and overall member satisfaction.
