Raising the bar: Wilson and Hill Architects

Designing and developing an inner-city health club proved an opportunity not to be missed. The end result is a Supreme Award-winning, resort-like facility, thanks to Christchurch-based Wilson and Hill Architects.

Providing architecture of a high calibre, Wilson and Hill is driven by a consistent philosophical approach, not a predetermined style, says director Stuart Hay.
Its philosophy to embrace modernist architecture and produce clean, spacious and light designs came to the fore in IHF Health Club, located in The Crossing in Cashel Street, in central Christchurch.

Turning three separate buildings, from the 1930s to 2016, into a relaxing health club was an “amazing opportunity,” says Stuart.
Health club director Dan Hood agrees. “There’s never been a well-thought-out health club here before and now there is. Even though it has its activity zones, it still has a resort-like feel,” he says.

Having different identities for each space was an important part of the project, both in its design and the end look and feel. The club blends heritage and contemporary features throughout, and includes a yoga studio, various exercise apparatus areas, and a full members’ lounge that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

At the New Zealand Exercise Industry Awards this month, the IHF Health Club – Christchurch won the Supreme Award and was named Idependent Facility of the Year.

Judges noted that the club “is at the pinnacle of high end facilities”.

www.wilsonandhill.co.nz