Sweat ’n’ shop

05 : 07 : 2016 Balboa Bar & Gym : Fitness : Destination

Zürich – Balboa Bar & Gym combines fitness, retail and leisure in one rugged space.

  • Balboa takes a more relaxed attitude to fitness than some other disciplinarians
  • Its bar-café serves snacks and alcohol, and doesn't discourage members from indulging
Balboa Bar & Gym by HelsinkiZurich, Zurich Balboa Bar & Gym by HelsinkiZurich, Zurich
Balboa Bar & Gym by HelsinkiZurich, Zurich Balboa Bar & Gym by HelsinkiZurich, Zurich
Balboa Bar & Gym by HelsinkiZurich, Zurich Balboa Bar & Gym by HelsinkiZurich, Zurich
Balboa Bar & Gym by HelsinkiZurich, Zurich Balboa Bar & Gym by HelsinkiZurich, Zurich
Balboa Bar & Gym by HelsinkiZurich, Zurich Balboa Bar & Gym by HelsinkiZurich, Zurich

Occupying a former Credit Suisse canteen in the heart of Zürich’s banking district, Balboa Bar & Gym is a space where members can work out with instructor-led classes, unwind at its bar or indulge in retail therapy at its concept store, which sells equipment, books and merchandise including skateboards.

The fact that Balboa mixes these seemingly incongruous uses is what makes it different. ‘At Balboa gym we want different worlds of urban life to collide and to use the energy it creates in a positive way,’ explains Balboa founder Erich Züger.

Designed by architects HelsinkiZurich, the new Balboa flagship gym was inspired by industrial minimalism, with a simple, yet functional interior made from steel, wood and leather, and the exposed brickwork and concrete accented by the colourful training equipment.

The Big Picture

Gyms are increasingly looking to other sectors for inspiration to become wellness eco-systems. Find out more about these one-stop shops for sweat and socialising in our Destination Fitness microtrend.

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