Explore the details of a project the Gribble Interior Group team recently completed for a commercial client.

This popular apartment community on the east side of Orlando came to our design firm seeking a refresh of their main clubhouse and fitness center. Keeping in mind the building’s demographics and the fact that most of the tenants in the building are college students, this project leans contemporary in style with a focus on an organic, industrial look. To complement the style, the color scheme includes warmer neutrals and pops of teal, green and rust.

The focus our project designers presented the client included enhancing and updating some of the existing architectural features, especially in the clubhouse, while providing a balance between function and aesthetics within budget. In the main lobby area of the clubhouse, fresh paint alone made a huge difference for the feel of the space. The walls went from a darker taupe paint with traditional white molding, to a lighter, warmer, neutral paint with dark and contrasting molding; overall, the space looks brighter and more inviting.

Next, we enhanced the existing architectural features by closing openings with the intention of defining the traffic path. We also sought to provide a sense of direction as you enter the space—this was accomplished by creating a pair of custom-built floor plan displays and a custom reception desk to combine both aesthetic appeal and function.

As you are naturally drawn towards the pool view, new elements and materials combine to create a visual statement that defines the two separate seating arrangements. The neutral paint we hand-selected provides a contrasting background for show-stopping light pendants to stand out (and tie in with the coffee table’s geometric shapes below!) The coffee table is the focal point for the first seating arrangement, which is a lounge/waiting area.

By contrast, some of the more organic shapes—such as decorative accents featured on the wall insets or the area rug’s peaceful pattern—help to create balance. At the same time, occupants are guided towards the second seating arrangement, which is mostly used by the employees to meet with future tenants. The pops of color seen throughout the lobby area, hallways, and fitness center repeat to create cohesion throughout the open space of the clubhouse.       

The fitness center was also expanded to provide more space for additional equipment, and our team was involved with the selection of finishes. The focal wall of the fitness center features the same pops of color mentioned above.

Overall, the space went from dark and dated to bright and modern. We provided the necessary updates to ensure that every visitor walking into the space feels welcomed and comfortable enough to call River Park apartments their new home.

We invite you to browse more photos of the completed project below: