SHH designs Kobox's third nightclub-themed boxing gym in London
– Rose McShane
Nightclub-themed boutique boxing studio operator Kobox has opened a third London location, having briefed architects SHH to bring its brand to life with "unusual design elements".
Situated in Marylebone, the latest studio combines features from entertainment venues like multicoloured lighting, blacklights and music with state-of-the-art gym equipment.
The previous interior of the gym, which contained two cycling studios, was stripped away to create one large studio space. New slam walls and a lighting and sound system were then installed, metal mesh was fitted in the changing room areas and key clamp merchandise displays were added.
The Kobox brand was bled through the gym in the form of the studio aesthetic, graffiti-covered walls, timber elements repainted to ensure continuity and a rough-finished reception counter.
A variety of obstacles also had to be overcome. Extra acoustic insulation had to be added despite the building’s low ceilings and a limited budget mean that the materials used had to be carefully selected, while remaining on brand.
"People come here to experience a clubbing vibe in a high-intensity environment, so we needed to maximise the most important elements – light, sound, and atmosphere," said Rose McShane, architect at SHH. "Our approach was to focus on which elements would have the greatest impact on the overall user experience."
Kobox London portfolio Marylebo studio SHH