Changing room refurbishments in leisure centres and gyms

Washrooms and changing areas at leisure centres and gyms must be extremely robust and easy to maintain since these are high traffic areas which get busy at peak times. Health and safety is paramount, and hygiene is high up the priority list for such venues. The state of washrooms and changing rooms can make all the difference to whether visitors return.

We’ve highlighted the key factors you should consider when building or redesigning leisure centre washrooms to make sure you get the optimum combination of function and form that will keep your visitors coming back again and again:

Optimising changing room design

All wet changing areas should be based near the swimming pool, whilst dry changing areas should be separate for gym users. Strong and secure lockers should naturally be positioned near to the facilities for ease of use, and benches and chairs should be fitted in changing areas.

It is recommended that there should be two toilet areas as well – one for swimming pool users and one for gym users. Consideration should also be given to the design of the cubicles and locker doors to fit in with the centres’ aesthetics.

Robust materials are a must

You must also consider the durability of not only your cubicles, but also your fixtures and fittings, and sanitaryware – remember that leisure facilities can now be in operation up to 24 hours a day so they need to robust and of high quality to withstand heavy use or vandalism.

Solid grade laminate (SGL) is the ideal material for cubicles, vanity units and duct panelling due its waterproof properties and its durability in high traffic areas.

Hygienic wall cladding can be installed on walls. It's very durable, waterproof and is available in a textured finish which is more forgiving on scuffs. Image printed hygienic wall cladding is also a great way to brighten up the washroom area too.

Metal and water don't mix at the best of times and with high humidity areas, it's essential to use powder coated ironmongery to resist erosion by water and chemicals.

Hygiene and water saving

It's also advisable to install sensor taps, flushes and dispensers. Not only are they are more hygienic option in a high humidy and high use area, but they can help save water and reduce wastage, ultimately saving you money.

A regular cleaning schedule is an essential part of maintaning a hygienic washroom environment. However, incorrect cleaning products being used is one of the most common things we see which can actually start the demise of a new washrooms and lead to things like rust and fading. Make sure you check O&M manuals for the correct cleaning liquids for each of your washroom materials.

25 years experience

A well designed and clean washroom backed up by durable fixtures and fittings that are easy to clean reflects your commitment to visitor comfort and hygiene, and can be a key differentiator in today's competitive fitness landscape. At Focus Washrooms, we specialize in refurbishing gym and leisure centre washrooms that are functional and durable as well as stylish and inviting. Our experienced team can guide you through every step of the process, from initial design to installation and completion. Get in contact with us today.