Client: Rawee Muay Thai
Location: Xujiahui District, Shanghai
Year of completion: 2014
Area: 85sqm
Rawee and Iris wanted to bring authentic Thai boxing to Shanghai, and so embarked on a life changing journey of setting up their own gym. They wanted a space that would meet practical requirements of a martial art gym, but also exude the energetic, raw, passionate atmosphere that any gym in Thailand exudes.
I worked closely with the clients, ensuring we maintained a shared vision of what the gym should be. We found cost effective ways to create the grungy vibe, using common materials in unconventional ways. We sought the help of local artists to add their touch of graffiti inspired artworks. We tied colours of the logo into the design, unifying the brand image.
Seeing the gym today, a year after opening, full of smiling, laughing, sweating students and trainers, using and enjoying the space created just for them, I am reminded of why I have chosen this career path.