Holmes Place, Cricklewood
August 2000
SPACE & PLACE designed and redeveloped a redundant North London production village into a high quality 6,000m2 facility for Holmes Place.
The design brief was to create an impressive central volume, to link all areas and provide visual and operational interaction. It needed also to signpost to new members the range of activities available. The concept ensured that the main reception and atrium formed the visual and functional link to all the activities within the building.
By using high level glazing with a lightweight tubular steel structure, seen from the front entrance, the trapezoidal form of the site creates an inviting and spacious feel. Interspersed are glass bridges and joining walls. The central roof light headlights the atrium, with a diffused glazed screen incorporating ’net zone’ textured glazing. This provides views into the pools from the main staircase. The 1,000m2 gymnasium joins the health suite and three aerobics studios, with views into the 25m fitness pool, central spa and learner pool.
The health club in Cricklewood was just one of a number of health and fitness facilities S&P undertook throughout Europe on behalf of Holmes Place. Designed to ’Holmes Place Five Star Standard’ each had an individual identity. These clubs are now branded ‘Virgin Active’.