Fitness Center Architecture Focused on Member Experience and Retention
We design inviting, efficient, and technologically integrated fitness and wellness centers. Our architecture drives higher member retention and optimizes operational flow, making your facility a top-tier destination in its market.
Beyond Just a Gym
We Design Complete Wellness Hubs
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Group Exercise Studios
Designing flexible studios with specialized flooring, integrated sound systems, and dedicated storage to accommodate diverse programming (yoga, cycling, HIIT).
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Specialty Training
Creating dedicated, secure areas for functional training, turf fields, and small-group training to support premium offerings.
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Recovery & Therapy
Integrating additional services like physical therapy clinics, massage rooms, and health offices that add value and expand the facility's overall health focus.
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Staff & Operations
Efficiently placing administrative offices, laundry, maintenance rooms, and access points to support smooth, low-overhead operation and discreet staff movement.
The Architecture of Fitness Member Retention
Optimal Layout Flow
We design efficient floor plans that manage peak hour traffic, strategically zoning areas (cardio, strength, free weights) to prevent movement bottlenecks and enhance your member’s experience.
Aesthetics & Natural Light
We will design using principles that maximize natural light to create an energetic, non-intimidating, and engaging atmosphere—a crucial factor in modern member sign-ups.
Technological Integration
We plan for a seamless integration of modern fitness technology, including dedicated zones for state-of-the-art virtual training classes, power/data requirements for smart equipment, and robust digital signage.
Locker Room & Amenities
We create clean, durable, and appealing locker rooms, towel service areas, and recovery spaces (saunas, cold plunge, quiet zones) that reflect your high standards of member care.
Ready to Build an Efficient, High-Performance Fitness Center?
Our specialized team is ready to discuss your project’s unique technical and financial requirements. We begin by listening to your facility goals, usage needs, and budget targets.
TCO Sports Garden
Special Feature: 2 NHL size ice sheets and permanent dome turf structure. Includes retail & education outlets, restaurant, storage, public lobby, and meeting spaces. Redevelopment of a blighted site that became a gateway to the city.
Fitness Center Design - Case Study
Sno-King
Sno-King | Snoqualmie, WA
Project Team: HTG Architects, Nelson, Northway Construction, Gausman Moore, Barghausen, Shulter Consulting Engineers, MacDonald-Miller, Becker Arena Products, Rink-Tec International, and WBLA
BUILDING TYPE
Recreational
YEAR BUILT
2019
DESIGN SCOPE
Remodel
PROJECT SIZE
72,500 sf
The demand for ice in Seattle had been steadily rising for years. “We were bursting at the seams,” said Jamie Huscroft, Director of Operations for Sno-King Ice Sports. Then, on Dec. 4, 2018, the NHL officially announced a new expansion franchise was coming.
Pop.
The metro area was electric. Sno-King ran two other rinks in nearby Renton and Kirkland, but those within the non-profit organization knew it wasn’t enough, especially with the eventually named Kraken coming in a few years.
That spring, Huscroft attended the North American Rink Conference & Expo in Buffalo, N.Y., where he met HTG Architects’ Tom Moorse.
DESIGN CHALLENGE
“I was really impressed with their work. I liked him. I trusted him. He was a good person and I knew they were really good at what they do,” said Huscroft, who played 352 games in the NHL and 14 seasons of pro hockey. “We went back and forth for a year or two, and when it came time for us to build, he went and created a great footprint and design, and we were really happy with it.
“Tom and his team could not have been better. They were great to work with, always available, very knowledgeable. Our builder Northway Construction was very happy with them as well. For me, I only had experience with residential building, not commercial. So it was like sucking on a firehose. But Tom was great — HTG was there every step of the way.”
The biggest obstacle? Real estate costs in the Seattle area are some of the highest in the nation. Eventually, Sno-King settled on the city of Snoqualmie and leased a 5-acre parcel with the help of the Razwick family, a local business owner who helped secure the land. In 2019, construction began on the $25 million, 72,500-square foot facility.
Sno-King Snoqualmie is home to two NHL-size ice sheets, 12 locker rooms, a 2,000 square foot dryland training area, pro shop, mezzanine, event/party rooms, and a spacious lobby.
“We’re right next to the mountains, so it’s very picturesque,” Huscroft said. “The customers love it. It’s just very welcoming, clean, and personable.”
HTG knew how important dryland training amenities are in today’s youth sports landscape. This led to a 2,000-square foot space that’s attracted new user groups and helped elevate the local players’ development. They also have benches that can accommodate sled hockey teams.
“There are a lot of little things, special touches, that make this place superior,” Huscroft said.
BELLS AND WHISTLES
Microsoft and Google are among the many companies hosting events at Sno-King Snoqualmie. School groups and birthday parties are also common.
City leaders, community members, and local businesses have fully embraced the facility.
“We’re probably the biggest employer in the area with 50 employees at any given time. The city loves that we’re having so many community events. The local Starbucks, Safeway, restaurants, and the brewery love it because we host tournaments and adult leagues, so they’ll stay at the hotel next door and go to all these places.”
COMMUNITY BENEFITS
Opened in 2020, Sno-King Snoqualmie had a five-year projection for profitability. Huscroft is proud to say they are a year ahead of schedule.
“We will be completely full within a year or two. I’m really happy about that.”
Sno-King’s experience with HTG was seamless.
“From start to finish, they’re just great people and it’s a great company,” Huscroft said. “Every time someone calls me with questions about how to go through this process, I recommend HTG.
“You have to choose a good architect. HTG’s been through it all. They know what to do in every situation. They have the experience — and they’re good people.”
BUSINESS IS BOOMING
Ready to Design a Fitness Center That Attracts and Retains Clients?
Don't let poor design hinder your success. HTG Architects understand the unique metrics of the fitness industry. Let us help you plan a center that delivers on both form and function.