Joyce Wang to design Equinox health club as company announces London expansion
US-based health club chain Equinox has revealed plans to open two new properties in London.
The premium operator, which opened its first UK club in the capital’s upmarket Kensington area in 2012, said the two new clubs are part of plans for a “continued expansion throughout London in the coming years”.
The first of the new clubs, located at 12 St. James’s Street in central London, is set to open in 2017 while the second – in Shoreditch – will launch in 2019.
The first of these will boast interiors created by designer Joyce Wang, while architecture firm Woods Bagot will build out plans to preserve original details of the historic building, fusing old and new to create a unique backdrop for this exclusive experience.
Design information about the second site has yet to be revealed.
“St. James’s and Shoreditch represent two unique communities in our city, each, like Equinox, grounded in substance but elevated in style,” said Gentry Long, the company's managing director of operations in the UK.
“Knowing that there is significant demand for the Equinox lifestyle in London, we feel confident that our offerings will further enhance the culture of these already vibrant neighbourhoods.”
He added that the concept for the St James’ club will be an “intimate addition to the company’s portfolio” and will distinguish itself from other clubs in the market with additional luxury amenities.
The club will also offer a boutique spa and lounge café.
Equinox currently operates 83 upscale, full-service clubs in the US and Canada, in addition to the single site in London.
Equinox fitness design architecture Joyce Wang