An all-female collective consisting of chief architect Kateryna Kuzmenko, executive architect Alla Lytvynenko, and project manager Valeriia Dehtiarova, alongside photography by Kateryna Zolotukhina, have created a one-of-a-kind fitness space combining group workouts in the ‘Gym’ area and mindful group classes in the ‘Soul’ area; both interconnected by the healthy and social ‘Smartass Café.’
Located in Kyiv, Smartass Gym & Soul by Smartass design studio, opened in 2024 at ‘GRADIENT’, a new luxury business centre in the city centre. Set over 1370,48 square metres, the club consists of the three main areas above divided over two floors.
Interiors include dark walls, neon signs, lightboxes and integrated art objects. Opposite the main entrance, a large wall-to-wall screen greets members with videos from Smartass Gym & Soul sessions, encouraging potential clients to sign up and step inside. As well as the gym, soul zone and café, the venue features a merch area and is adorned with backlit shelves and an additional set of stylish curved neon signs. Humorous navigation signs deserve special attention. For example, in addition to the utilitarian Gym and Soul markings above the doorways, above the elevators are “ordinary world” with a downward arrow.
In the gym, the training area features a set block of black rubber flooring and an installation on the ceiling that simulates a gradient transition from dawn to sunset. As you move along the different training zones, the mood and intensity of the light changes thanks to this installation. Mauve and magenta shades can be found in the warm-up and hang-up area transitioning to neutral light in the arm zone, and a hot red in the functional and cardio zone. Ochre is the colour of choice in the Soul area which is made up of three separate rooms with group trainings and two massage rooms. It represents a calmer and more thoughtful place to be with your body.
A yoga room, reformers room and mobility room also enable those looking for more serenity to enjoy a workout before rehydrating and refuelling in the Smartass Café after enjoying a session of their choice.
A considered concept where lighting, design and zoning are as important as the equipment and array of activities on offer, Smartass Gym & Soul is an inspired choice for those looking to embark on their wellness journey in Kyiv.
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Smartass Gym & Soul Kyiv Photography, Kateryna Zolotukhina.
