Shape Space-Finally the Reveal

After what felt like a never-ending design challenge, Shape Space is finally complete. What started as a fairly straight forward design to create a home gym that merges function, design, and wellness turned into an absolute test of patience, problem-solving, and design precision. But I made it, and I couldn’t be happier with the result.

Since my last update, I made some big and necessary changes. The biggest one was repainting the ceiling and walls again. Originally, the ceiling was yellow, and while I love experimenting with color, it just wasn’t vibing with me. So, in true designer fashion, I repainted it in the same rich blue as the custom-built screening and carried it up onto the ceiling. To add even more depth, I created a visual recess with black paint so that my sleek, modern linear lighting would blend seamlessly into the ceiling.

Let’s Talk Lighting Because Recessed Cans Are Not Gym-Friendly

I had my electrician remove the two recessed can lights in the space because, frankly, they were awful. First, the lighting was terrible for a gym, and second, anytime I stretched or did anything on my back, I’d get blinded by those direct beams of light. Not ideal. Instead, I found these connectable linear lights and created an S-shape design. One, because hello, Shape Space, and two, because it allowed me to illuminate all my workout zones evenly without any blinding downlights. Now, the lighting actually enhances the space rather than working against it.

The Screening – Function, Form, and a Whole Lot of Thought

One of the standout elements in Shape Space is the custom screening. I designed it to divide the wide-open basement while keeping the space feeling connected and intentional. It creates definition without closing things off, just enough separation to enhance focus while still carrying the energy of an open layout. It also acts as a visual guide into the space, drawing you in and setting the tone for movement.

But it’s more than just a divider. It’s a visual rhythm. The 3D blocks mimic the movement of piano keys, inspired by both music and the heartbeat of motion. Just like a great workout, music has a natural flow, a beat that drives energy and momentum. Whether it’s lifting weights to a steady rhythm or syncing breath to movement, there’s power in that connection. Shape Space is all about movement in design, in training, and in life.

The screening also plays with light and shadow, creating dynamic visual interest throughout the day. The contrast between the structured form and the way light filters through gives the space an ever-changing quality, just like movement itself. It’s a balance of strength and flow, which is exactly what I wanted for this gym.

Smart Storage – Keeping Clutter Out of the Gym

A well-designed gym isn’t just about cool equipment and great lighting—it’s about function, and that means storage. Originally, I planned to integrate storage inside the gym itself, but as the space came together, I realized that placing it right outside the gym worked so much better. Not only does it keep the actual gym space open and free of clutter, but it also created the perfect area for a mobility and stretch zone just outside the workout area.

The added storage now houses all the extra equipment—resistance bands, dumbbells, foam rollers, and all the little things that can easily make a space feel chaotic if left out. Everything has a place, making it easy to grab what I need without it being in the way when I’m moving through my workouts.

Was This a Quick Project Absolutely Not

If you think I wrapped this up in the eight weeks of the One Room Challenge, let’s all have a good laugh together. This took so much longer than I ever expected. Between the ceiling redo, the custom screening, waiting on the right gym equipment, and making sure every detail aligned with my vision, it tested my patience. But in the end, it was 100 percent worth it.

And the best part? It’s mine. No waiting for equipment, no weird gym smells, no bad overhead lighting. Just a space tailored to my workouts, my goals, and my love of good design. Shape Space isn’t just a home gym. It’s a fully designed wellness space that encourages movement, energy, and a healthier lifestyle at home.

The Beginning of Something Bigger

Shape Space is more than just my home gym—it’s the foundation of something I’m deeply passionate about. This project led me to launch Shape Space, a design service dedicated to creating functional, inspiring home gyms that go beyond the basic treadmill-in-the-corner setup.

I’ve always believed that fitness and design should work together, and I’m on a mission to change the way people think about home gyms. A gym shouldn’t feel like an afterthought. It should be a space that motivates you, supports your goals, and seamlessly fits into your home and lifestyle.

This is just the beginning. Shape Space is about redefining what a gym can be—blending aesthetics with performance, movement with design, and creating spaces that make people actually want to work out. I can’t wait to bring this vision to more homes and help others experience the impact of a well-designed fitness space. Let’s rethink what a gym can be, together.

Would love to hear your thoughts.

XO Jana