Designing the Perfect Gym: A Look at Forest House by Jeffrey Jordan Architects

When it comes to designing the ideal gym, functionality, aesthetics, and community are the key pillars that elevate a space from ordinary to extraordinary. At Jeffrey Jordan Architects, we had the privilege of bringing this vision to life with Forest House, a groundbreaking fitness concept in the heart of Watford. This project showcases how thoughtful architectural design can transform a building into a thriving health and wellness hub, perfectly tailored to modern lifestyles.

A New Fitness Concept for Watford

Forest House isn’t just a gym—it’s a destination. Located centrally in Watford, this 16,000-square-foot health and wellness club was conceived to foster a sense of belonging. From the outset, our aim was to create an environment where fitness enthusiasts and casual visitors alike could connect, recharge, and thrive. The design seamlessly blends workout zones with lifestyle spaces, offering a holistic experience that goes beyond traditional exercise facilities. As noted by Health Club Management, “We want Forest House to be the place that ticks all the boxes: that isn’t just another health and fitness club” (source).

Reimagining the Existing Space

The foundation of Forest House was an existing building that we upgraded, extended, and reconfigured to meet the ambitious needs of this new venture. Rather than starting anew, we recognised the potential in what already existed and enhanced it with a modern, high-end approach. This process involved meticulous planning to maximise the space whilst ensuring every square foot served a purpose—whether for dynamic workouts, relaxation, or social interaction. According to the Watford Observer, the project saw a £3 million investment to deliver “a wide range of offerings in one club,” transforming the former West Herts Squash and Fitness site into a premium facility (source).

The result? A luxurious yet practical 16,000-square-foot leisure space that feels both expansive and intimate. By preserving elements of the original structure and integrating them with bold new extensions, we created a design that respects its heritage whilst embracing the future of fitness.

Collaboration from Day One

At Jeffrey Jordan Architects, we pride ourselves on being more than just designers—we’re partners in bringing our clients’ visions to reality. For Forest House, we were involved from the very first stage, working closely with the client to understand their goals and aspirations. Leading a talented design team, we shaped an exceptional scheme that reflects both the practical demands of a gym and the aspirational ethos of a wellness community. Jon Williams, MD of The Really Fine Leisure Company, emphasised this vision: “We’ve taken the best of what we’ve done over the years and applied all our learnings to create something genuinely new and different in the market” (source).

This collaborative approach allowed us to fine-tune every detail, from the layout of workout areas to the flow of lifestyle spaces. The result is a gym that feels intuitive to navigate, with a design that inspires movement, connection, and well-being.

The Perfect Gym Design: What Makes Forest House Stand Out

So, what makes Forest House the epitome of perfect gym design? It’s the balance of form and function. The upgraded building offers state-of-the-art facilities wrapped in a sophisticated aesthetic that elevates the user experience. The variety of spaces—dedicated workout zones, relaxation areas, and communal hubs—caters to diverse needs, ensuring there’s something for everyone. General Manager David Banisadeghian highlighted the club’s unique appeal: “We say to members ‘the only thing we need you to come with is one spare set of clothes, everything else you need we will provide’” (source). This all-inclusive approach, paired with high-end design, sets Forest House apart.

By rooting the design in a sense of community, we’ve created a space that people want to return to again and again. Curious to see more? Check out the stunning visuals and offerings at Forest House’s official site.

A Blueprint for the Future

For architects, projects like Forest House are a reminder that the best designs solve problems whilst sparking inspiration. At Jeffrey Jordan Architects, we’re proud to have delivered a fitness space that not only meets the demands of today’s health-conscious world but also sets a new standard for what a gym can be.