Four Seasons Singapore

The gym at Four Seasons Singapore was one of the most technically challenging yet rewarding projects I’ve taken on. The goal was clear: update the space without altering any of the existing architectural structures or electrical outlets. That constraint required a design rooted in precision, adaptability, and experience. My background in exercise physiology and nutrition, combined with decades of client-based coaching, shaped every decision. The final result had to support movement in a way that felt natural, clear, and rewarding for users of all levels.

This project began in 2016 as a renovation of an existing gym, with construction completed in about 2018. The property itself is one of my favorite places in the world. Singapore sits at a global crossroads—culturally rich, visually lush, and architecturally refined. Four Seasons Singapore reflects that, with an ownership group deeply committed to excellence. It’s also home to a unique user base that includes both international guests and long-term residents. That duality demanded a space that was both highly functional and timelessly elegant.

The gym is located on the third floor, adjacent to a serene 20-metre lap pool and close to the tennis courts. The location lends itself naturally to a wellness-focused flow. A guest might train in the gym, take a dip in the pool, then walk down Orchard Road for additional movement and local flavor. That continuity shaped every part of the layout.

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One of the core design challenges was architectural: we weren’t allowed to relocate existing power outlets or modify major structural elements. That meant we had to rethink how to achieve new functionality within a fixed framework. Working with Hoist and Life Fitness, we designed a layout that maximized efficiency, introduced new modalities, and respected the integrity of the original space.

A central feature of the redesign was the custom-built motion cage at the heart of the gym. This unit serves as a functional training hub and includes an Olympic bar setup for squats and bench press, dual cable resistance, TRX straps, a battle rope anchor, pull-up bars, and integrated storage for kettlebells. The decision to place this structure in the middle was deliberate—it immediately activates the room, both visually and functionally, encouraging movement in all directions.

This was also one of the first projects where we used black framing and reupholstered equipment in sand-toned accents, which now define the gym’s visual identity. Combined with high-end wall treatments and warm neutral tones, the space echoes the elegance of a ballroom without sacrificing athletic utility.

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Spatial planning prioritized privacy and clarity. Mirrors and machines were placed in a specific way to avoid face-to-face orientation. Functional areas were delineated by subtle shifts in flooring texture and pattern, helping users intuitively distinguish strength zones from recovery or warm-up areas. This reduces cognitive friction and increases ease of use—a design principle drawn from Human Factors Engineering.

Biophilic design was also a key influence. Singapore’s lush, tropical environment informed the gym’s indoor-outdoor visual relationship. We placed greenery throughout the space to soften transitions and support parasympathetic nervous system activity. These plants help create a calm, restorative atmosphere, especially for guests arriving from long flights or busy urban environments.

Lighting was layered to support circadian rhythm alignment, and we deliberately excluded TV screens to minimize visual noise. Instead, we focused on creating a setting where users could focus on internal cues.

Because this gym serves not only hotel guests but also long-term property owners, we had to think beyond short-term aesthetics. The equipment needed to meet the needs of everyone from beginners to advanced users. Machines were selected for their adaptability. Instructional areas were woven into the layout for seamless personal training without disrupting flow.

Nutrition and hydration features were included to boost the experience further. Complimentary fruit and clean water stations help stabilize blood sugar, support thermoregulation, and reduce perceived exertion. Every design element was filtered through the lens of performance science and real-world behavior.

Color psychology also guided our decisions. The beige-grey palette reduces visual clutter and helps regulate cortisol levels. Upholstery in warm sand tones contributes to a feeling of groundedness. These subtle choices collectively support a positive, focused training experience.

What sets this gym apart is not any single feature but the integration of research, aesthetics, and empathy. It was designed to serve the full spectrum of users such as business travelers, local members, wellness tourists, and everyone in between. Every material choice, equipment placement, and spatial transition was calibrated to promote movement, reduce intimidation, and increase consistency.

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Throughout the project, I collaborated closely with the hotel team to ensure the final gym reflected Four Seasons’ core values of discretion, service, and excellence. The finished space embodies what I believe gym design should represent: practical, evidence-based, and shaped by how people actually train.

If you're planning to build or refine a fitness facility and want to anchor it in the science of training, recovery, and behavior, click here to get in touch with me.

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