East Bank Club

Hirsch MPG has been serving as the in-house architect for the East Bank Club, an upscale health club located along the banks of the Chicago River. While working on various projects within the facility including renovations to the pro shop, spa and deli, the renovation and expansion of the cardiovascular-fitness (CV) room was the largest and most dramatic transformation. Taking an ill-defined space, the renovation provided a tiered semi-circular arrangement for equipment promoting social interaction and establishing order. An angular path and ramp cuts thru the circular tiers based upon observed pedestrian patterns. Central columns were clad in conical stainless steel and perforated steel sheaths and equipped with flat screen televisions, assuring views to the majority of the equipment. Stretching and free weight nodes were established along the perimeter and a Pilates/ dance room, in its own structure, was provided to define the space and reduce the tall room’s scale. Colors were selected to complement an existing mural and new lighting provided to give a higher and more even level of illumination.