Challenge
The owners of The Wall in Vista, CA wanted to design a climbing gym that reflected their surfing and climbing background and exemplified the southern California lifestyle. In a developed climbing market with numerous existing gyms, Matt and Randy sought to create a space that would look and feel unique. Our challenge was to integrate the essence of their brand into the design of the gym to ensure its presence throughout the space.
Approach
The Wall’s logo and brand were inspired by the classic surf film The Endless Summer. The film places an emphasis on the outdoor experience and the satisfaction that comes from following a passion. With this in mind, our goal was to create the feeling of openness and to bring the outdoors inside by drawing in plenty of natural light and airflow. We took advantage of the building’s many windows and large bay doors by designing climbing walls around these attributes, rather than blocking them. We also sought to make a big first impression on visitors by creating a truly impactful climbing wall design. Our team took inspiration from the famous surf break Teahupo’o off the coast of Tahiti – a break that is totally unique and immediately recognizable. We even incorporated a giant surfboard into the design to serve as a focal point in the midst of the wave.
Outcome
The Wall offers climbers a space that is open and welcoming, bright and clean. The gym’s members enjoy a good balance of climbing, yoga, community space and one of the best functional training areas in So Cal. In the words of co-owner Randy Englekirk, “our brand and our climbing wall are one in the same; without our design we would be just like any other gym.”
