Urban Design
A boutique fitness studio that champions cycling while creating space for relaxation
Pulsing beats, high-intensity indoor cycling, and trendsetting fitness classes: Becycle, the wildly successful boutique gym concept, has called Düsseldorf home since 2020. But there's far more to it than pedaling. Electro, pop, rock, and funk rhythms pulse through your body and transfer directly to the pedals—creating an infectious energy that fills the entire studio and captivates everyone in it. Beyond cycling, Becycle offers cutting-edge classes including HIIT, barre, Reformer Pilates, and yoga.
Across its 600 m² footprint, the contemporary studio in the city center delivers far more than fitness alone. Becycle redefines what a sports studio can be, seamlessly blending urban design into the experience: exposed raw brick walls, timber accents, generous individual wellness showers, and a state-of-the-art sound system come together to create a relaxed lounge atmosphere. The urban aesthetic was brought to life by the design team at Mag.Design, whose Berlin location has already garnered prestigious design awards. For this project, Mag.Design partnered with the Chilean architectural firm DRAA throughout both the conceptual and execution phases. "The design is fundamentally inclusive—it intentionally breaks from the aggressive, conventional gym aesthetic that prioritizes heavy weights and appeals primarily to male athletes," explains architect Matthias Götz. "Those who once filled trendy nightclubs are now booking Becycle rides during their lunch breaks. That's why we invest so heavily in lighting and sound design." The vision is to foster a shared, electrifying fitness experience. The architect drew inspiration from Venice's vibrant narrow streets and piazzas—lively gathering spaces by nature. From the moment you enter, visitors flow through carefully calibrated squares that offer expansive views into the training rooms. Each turn, each staircase reveals a fresh perspective. The retail area, lockers, and water fountain are seamlessly woven into custom-designed furnishings. These intimate squares encourage lingering and connection among members after class. The project centers on three signature materials: oak wood, natural stone (granite), and brass. Oak and deep black granite create visual balance between hard and soft, cool and warm. Brass ties these elements together and has become Becycle's signature detail across all locations worldwide.
Photography Credits:
Waldemar Salesski
www.salesski.de
(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf 03|22)