The square city block, located close to Zurich Main Station in Kreis 5, was meant to be a block perimeter. However, the block still has vacant plots offering the possibility of redensification.
Thus, the institution is not placed at the border of the block. The nucleus of the gym is a massive, everlasting centre of the city block that adapts to the change of the surroundings. The existing courtyards act as outside gyms or are filled with a light structure to create indoor sport areas. Available spaces in the perimeter of the block can be attached for gym use.
Physical activity leads to an individual transformation of body and mind. The nucleus houses functions that promote this process and support rituals.
Unlike traditional gyms, that have a linear sequence of rooms, the nucleus functions as the centre of the structure which hosts the essential functions and allows circulation to all the sports rooms. During training the nucleus is revisited repeatedly. Water rituals promote self-reflection and rest. They stretch the in-between moments when passing the water fountain in the center of the nucleus.