Designing Fitness That Performs

In the world of fitness, equipment gets a lot of attention—but it’s the space around it that determines how people move, engage, and return. Kayleigh Stiles, Facility Design Manager at Life Fitness / Hammer Strength, leads the charge in translating brand vision and training intent into dynamic, functional environments. From custom rack logos to the rise of modular training hubs, Kayleigh and her team are designing the future of fitness—one thoughtful layout at a time.  

In this in-depth conversation, Kayleigh unpacks the evolving expectations of today’s fitness spaces, and reveals how her team blends precision, creativity, and collaboration to bring brand identities to life.  

Facility Design Capabilities  

Q: Can you give us an overview of the facility design capabilities at LF/HS?  

Kayleigh: At Life Fitness and Hammer Strength, we provide full-scale facility design services covering everything from initial space planning and layout to detailed rendering and visualization. Using advanced design software, we create accurate 2D and immersive 3D floor plans that bring spaces to life, whether it’s a small boutique studio or a 30,000+ square-foot performance center.  

While our design team rarely works directly with facility operators, we collaborate closely with our commercial sales representatives, who serve as the primary point of contact with the client. They gather essential details about the training goals, brand identity, and member experience expectations, and then relay that information to us in a clear, organized way. This process ensures that every design aligns seamlessly with the facility’s vision and operational needs whether for a corporate fitness center, collegiate strength room, or elite athletic performance space.  

Q: What sets LF/HS’s design services apart from others in the industry?  

Kayleigh: It’s our deep understanding of training methodology and how to integrate equipment intelligently. We’re not just placing products in a space. We’re creating layouts that support specific training modalities, deliver exceptional user experiences, and help facilities achieve their business objectives.  

We also draw on insights from across the Life Fitness / Hammer Strength teams, whether it’s the latest selectorized equipment innovations, free weight trends, or smart training zone concepts, and apply them directly to our designs. This cross-functional expertise allows us to create winning layouts that help our sales team and customers succeed.  

Q: How do you ensure that the design meets the specific needs and goals of each client?  

Kayleigh: By the time a project comes to our design team, the sales rep has already gathered key details—like the facility’s target demographic, program offerings, space requirements, and aesthetic priorities. We use that information as the foundation for our layouts. From there, we focus on future-proofing the design; building in flexibility for growth, modularity, and evolving training trends so the space can adapt over time.  

Q: Any standout feedback that speaks to the impact of your design work? 

Kayleigh: Since we typically work behind the scenes, most of our feedback comes through our sales reps and what they’ve shared has been incredibly validating. One rep told us, “Huge thanks to you as a team that gets these quality renders turned around. We’re winning more than ever.” 

Another noted that, “Sometimes speed and quality get a foot in the door and a seat at the table.” That’s what we aim for: design work that gives our sales team an edge and earns trust with facility decision-makers. 

Our goal is to deliver visuals and floor plans that not only bring a space to life but also give our reps more time to engage in meaningful conversations with clients. As one put it: “Your reaction time and quality is allowing us more time to engage with the customer.” That’s a win for everyone. 

Trends and Innovations  

Q: What trends in fitness facility design are you most excited about right now?  

Kayleigh: Customization is a big one. Clients want spaces that reflect their brand identity, and we help bring that to life with custom touches like branded anvils, bumper plates, shrouds, dumbbells, and rack colors. In higher education and athletic performance spaces especially, that visual identity builds pride and a stronger connection to the facility.  

Another trend we’re seeing is modular training zones like our LFX modules which create flexible, small group training areas within a larger floor plan. By clustering these zones strategically, we can create high-energy hubs that enhance both training variety and member engagement.  

Q: How does LF/HS incorporate technology and innovation into its facility designs?  

Kayleigh: We use advanced 3D rendering software to help clients see their space before it’s built. And because we work closely with our product innovation teams, we’re always aware of the latest equipment features and configurations whether it’s new cable machine setups, updated console technology, or other design-forward innovations. That allows us to integrate the newest options into layouts so our designs can stay ahead of the curve.  

Challenges and Solutions 

Q: What are some common challenges you face in facility design, and how do you solve them? 

Kayleigh: One challenge is retrofitting a modern design into an older facility with structural limitations like low ceilings or load-bearing columns. In those cases, we get creative with sightlines, equipment placement, and traffic flow to make the space functional and inviting. 

Another is finding the right balance between aesthetics and long-term durability. Many facilities want a “wow” factor, but the space also has to stand up to heavy daily use—from chalk and sweat to repeated impact from weights. While we don’t select or recommend specific finish vendors, our design concepts incorporate ideas for durable layouts, equipment placement, and material types so facilities can work with their own partners to bring the vision to life without sacrificing visual appeal. 

Q: How does design affect the member experience?  

Kayleigh: It impacts everything from how welcome someone feels when they walk in, to how confident they are trying a new piece of equipment. A clear, intuitive layout lowers the barrier to entry, while smart zoning keeps traffic flowing. When a space reflects a facility’s brand, it creates a stronger emotional connection with members.  

Q: What design elements help increase engagement and satisfaction?  

Kayleigh: Modular strength pods, clearly defined training areas such as cardio, strength, and recovery and dedicated social spaces all play a role. Members want more than just equipment; they want an environment that inspires them to return over and over.  

Sustainability and Accessibility  

Q: How do you approach sustainability in your designs?  

Kayleigh: For us, sustainability starts with durability. When a space is designed to last using equipment that has been held up to years of heavy use, it reduces the need for frequent replacements, which is both cost-efficient and environmentally friendly.  

The Future of Facility Design 

Q: What does the future of fitness facility design look like to you? 

Kayleigh: More personalized. More immersive. I see a future where advanced visualization tools—like highly realistic 3D renders—allow customers to clearly envision what their space will look like before a single piece of equipment is installed. This makes it easier to tailor designs to each facility’s unique needs and brand vision. 

Q: How is LF/HS preparing for that future? 

Kayleigh: We’re investing in innovation on both the product and design sides. Our design teams are pushing the limits of realistic rendering technology so we can bring concepts to life in a way that’s as close to the finished product as possible. This helps our customers make confident decisions and ensures we’re co-creating spaces that are both inspiring and achievable. 

Designing for Different Markets: Urban vs. Suburban  

Q: What changes when designing for an urban vs. suburban facility?  

Kayleigh: Space constraints are the biggest factor in urban settings. You have to be hyper-intentional with every square foot, often finding creative ways to maximize storage and functionality. In suburban spaces, you typically have more room to work with, so the focus shifts to optimizing flow and zoning.  

Q: What should facilities be asking when planning in either setting?  

Kayleigh: Before design work begins, it’s important for facilities and their sales reps to clearly define their target audience, programming mix, and vision for success. That information guides every decision from walkway widths to equipment priorities and ensures the final layout supports their operational goals.  

Getting Started: What Should Facilities Ask First?  

Q: What should a facility or brand manager consider first when designing a new space?  

Kayleigh: Start with the user. What training experience do you want to create for members? From there, focus on flow, equipment placement, and future growth potential. Those early decisions shape how the space will function and feel for years to come.