PROJECT: Flex fitness

In February 2020, franchisee John Appel signed a new franchise agreement with national fitness chain Flex Fitness to open a new gym franchise at Papamoa Junction, a new commercial development in Papamoa East. Weeks later, the world as we know it changed due to the global pandemic, and New Zealand was soon in lockdown. John, an ex-pat from the USA, did not let this deter his plans, and while in lockdown, set about designing his new gym interior with a New York-based designer. ​

The centrepiece of the gym’s reception is the counter. Based on futuristic minimalist design inspiration from Star Wars, Star Trek and Tron, its obtuse-angled design gives the effect that one end of the counter is floating in space. ​

The team at Ultra Surface Solutions were provided with design drawings for the obtuse-angled counter by the franchisee. While the architectural drawings were detailed, we had to translate these into CAD designs specific to our laminate manufacturing and CNC machining processes. ​

The counter was constructed in MDF substrate and clad with Laminex Black Velour high-pressure laminate with a Yellow light tape sourced direct from the USA and 10mm clear Perspex supports. ​

The finished result is a floating countertop, which in the striking black interior space, is visually spectacular! ​

“We’ve created a vibe as a fun place to be. Our members love it – they absolutely love it!” says John.