The recreational sports landscape is undergoing rapid transformation. Long-term memberships and single-club loyalty are a thing of the past. In their place, flexible models are taking hold—ones that offer far more than any individual club could provide. Here's the model: a network of providers partners with specialized studios offering yoga, fitness, and other disciplines, giving members access to an expansive range of activities. Urban Sports Club epitomizes this approach. Their newly opened Berlin Mitte headquarters stands as testament to this philosophy. Design duo Glatz & Glatz orchestrated the complete interior design, infusing all six floors with refined, distinctly athletic character. Brothers Wolfram and Tilman Glatz bring over two decades of multidisciplinary expertise spanning art, architecture, scenography, and functional design. They shepherd each project from initial concept through planning and final execution, crafting integrated solutions that transcend traditional boundaries.

Spanning 4,500 m², Urban Sports Club's headquarters accommodates approximately 250 employees. The design challenge was to translate corporate identity and brand culture into a tangible experience for staff, partners, and clients alike—evident from the custom typography of signage and wayfinding throughout the space. Sport permeates all six floors, subtly reinforcing the brand's essence while prioritizing employee wellness and vitality. Pull-up bars punctuate the stairwell. Fitness-grade flooring anchors the lounges. Colorful mesh curtains segment spaces throughout. A bespoke office furniture collection draws inspiration from the functional aesthetics of training equipment. The ground floor welcomes visitors with an inviting reception and staff canteen. Specialized areas feature custom telephone pods, modular conference cubes, and meeting boxes, while lounges showcase cast-iron furniture by Magis. Bold color contrasts underscore the new corporate identity. Standout moments include custom stainless steel seating and counters with upholstery evoking sneaker design. The top floor unites an auditorium and fitness zone—both commanding views of the Fernsehturm at Alexanderplatz.

www.glatz.studio

Photography Credits:

Stefan Haehnel
www.stefanhaehnel.com

(Published in CUBE Berlin 02|20)