Photo credit: Joel Zwink
Obnoxiously Noisy Gym? There’s a Solution for That
Gyms are filled with active people, pulsing music and noisy workout machines that together can contribute to unpleasant echo and commotion. On top of that, most weight rooms and fitness centers consist of hard floors, full-length mirrors and untreated ceilings, which make the acoustics go from bad to worse.
Such was the case at video telematics company Lytx, who tapped ID Studios to design their new 71,000-square-foot San Diego-based headquarters. With a focus on employee-centric design, Lytx leadership sought to reflect the evolving identity of its expanding market and employee workforce—diverse in generation, lifestyle and experience. This included plans for an in-house gym available to employees.
The design team took extra steps to ensure the acoustic and visual environment was well positioned as an enjoyable amenity by partnering with Kirei to utilize EchoPanel as a designed acoustic solution for the Lytx workout area. In addition to improving the acoustics within the gym, EchoPanel is made from 60% recycled PET content and is 100% recyclable after use. As such, the PET plastic will not hold odor or harbor bacteria making this a smart solution for a gym setting.
First, custom EchoScreens cut in the shape of trees serve double duty as acoustic artwork. The screens were mounted to the wall in the hallway and continue into the main equipment area. In order to help disperse and absorb excessive noise — in large part caused by the high ceilings — EchoPanel Simple Baffles were suspended from the ceiling bringing a pop of color to the space. An enclosed fitness room with full-length glass windows also contributed to reverberation so EchoScreens with a bird vignette were suction cupped to the glass for easy install and cleaning capabilities. However, more importantly these screens added privacy for those within the enclosed fitness room.
Success of the design was validated when Lytx received its annual employee survey results, where employees identified the new building as one of the most positive, impactful changes in the company. www.kireiusa.com.