ORC Week 2: Creating My Ultimate Shape Space

Home Gym

As week two of the One Room Challenge rolls on, the Shape Space home gym is starting to take shape—literally and figuratively. This week has been all about planning the layout, testing flooring samples, and refining the design, all while keeping functionality top of mind. Since this is the first Shape Space, I’m excited to share the progress and dive into the details of how I’m transforming this part of my basement into a dynamic fitness zone.

The Importance of Layout: Maximizing Space with Multifunctional Equipment

One of the biggest features I’m adding to my gym is a power rack, and it’s not just any rack—this one is a multifunctional unit that will serve as the cornerstone of the gym. The layout is key here because this power rack will take up approximately a 7′ x 7′ x7 footprint, and I need to ensure there’s ample room to move around it. The rack is capable of supporting a variety of exercises, including:

• Half Rack Station: Perfect for barbell movements like squats, bench presses, deadlifts, and overhead presses.
• Smith Machine Station: This provides a safer option for barbell exercises, as the fixed path of the smith bar reduces injury risks.
• Lat Pulldown Station & Low Row Station: Ideal for heavier pulley movements such as lat pulldowns, tricep pressdowns, rows, and more.
• Adjustable Cable Station: This versatile station is perfect for functional training exercises like cable flys, presses, and lateral raises.

This rack also includes a pull-up bar, weight storage, and even a barbell holder, making it a compact yet incredibly versatile piece of equipment. My layout needs to accommodate this unit and the potential future addition of a treadmill. Having the right amount of space to perform these exercises safely and efficiently is critical, which is why the layout planning has been a huge focus this week. I’m so excited about the multi-functional capabilities of this rack—it’s going to be a game-changer!

Selecting Commercial Grade Gym Flooring: Form Meets Function

This week, I also received several gym floor samples, and I’m in the process of deciding on the final choice. I want something that’s not only durable but also aesthetically pleasing. I’m leaning toward a commercial-rated gym floor because it provides the best balance of functionality and durability. Here’s why that’s so important:

• Shock Absorption: A good gym floor protects your joints and reduces wear and tear on your body during exercises like deadlifts and jumps. I love some deadlifts!!
• Sound Insulation: Gym floors also help reduce noise—important for a home gym
• Durability: Commercial-rated flooring is built to withstand heavy equipment, barbells, and high-traffic areas. It needs to hold up for the long term. While not necessarily a high traffic area I’m looking for durability here.

I’m playing with a fun, unique design in the floor. However, I’m waiting to hear back from the installer to see if that type of customization is possible. If not, I’ll need a backup plan.

Defining the Space: Screening and Color

Because my home gym is open to the rest of the basement, adding screening to define the space is essential. This is where I get to have a bit of fun with design and color. I’ll be using the screens not only as dividers but also as an opportunity to bring in an energetic color. Since the gym itself will have a black base, the screens will provide that pop of vibrancy to keep the space from feeling too dark or closed off.

Many gyms use black as a foundational color because:

• It grounds the space and provides a neutral backdrop that doesn’t distract from the task at hand: fitness. The black will help the equipment blend into the surroundings.
• It hides wear and tear—a big plus in a gym setting where scuffs and marks are inevitable.
• It creates a sleek, modern look, which is the vibe I’m going for.

Adding Storage for Accessories

Another important aspect of my design is incorporating storage for smaller gym accessories like resistance bands, kettle bells, and jump ropes. While these items won’t take up a lot of floor space, they still need a designated spot to keep the room organized and clutter-free. I’m planning on adding some wall-mounted storage options that are functional and blend seamlessly with the overall design.

Movement-Inspired Mural: Bringing Life to the Space

One of the design highlights is a black-and-white mural that will feature on the back wall. The concept behind the mural is all about movement, which ties into the essence of Shape Space itself. Fitness is about dynamic movement, growth, and transformation, and I want the mural to inspire that feeling.

Lighting: Balancing Function and Comfort

One challenge I’m facing is the gym lighting. The existing recessed lights are off-center, and I don’t want to tear into the ceiling for new electrical work. So, I’m on the hunt for a linear light fixture that can extend into the room, providing balanced lighting without the harsh glare typical of recessed lights.

Lighting is so important in a gym setting. It needs to be bright enough to clearly see the equipment and perform exercises safely but not so bright that it becomes blinding when working out on the floor. I’m prioritizing functionality here but still want to find a fixture that complements the overall design.

Why This Makeover Means So Much to Me

This isn’t just a gym makeover—it’s the start of something super exciting! Creating Shape Space combines two of my biggest passions: interior design and fitness. I’ve always loved helping people create beautiful, functional spaces, and now I get to take that a step further by designing spaces that inspire wellness and movement.

But let’s be real, this is also where I’m going to crush my own workouts and feel strong and fabulous! I want this gym to feel like a place where I’m excited to lift weights, run, ride, stretch, and just feel good. Plus, having a personalized gym means no more excuses, right? (Well, maybe just a few, like “I need new gym shoes!”)

The fun part is, this makeover isn’t just about equipment and floors—it’s about making a space that feels like me, full of energy, motivation, and maybe a little extra flair (because who doesn’t love some pizzazz while they squat?).

Moving Forward

Next week, I’ll finalize the flooring decision, the screening to define the space, and hopefully find the ideal lighting fixture. Stay tuned as I continue to build out shape space and move closer to realizing my vision!