Sterling Bay – Life Science

Case Study: Pacific Center Wellness Center

Project Type: Life Sciences Campus Fitness Amenity

Location: San Diego, CA (Sorrento Mesa)

Client: Opti-Fit

Role: Strategic Advisor, Design Consultant, Fitness Amenity Planner & Equipment Partner

The Vision

The objective was to set a new standard for Sterling Bay’s flagship West Coast life sciences facility—an 800,000-square-foot campus designed for innovation and discovery. The vision centered on a “jewel-box” amenity building that bridges the gap between high-performance lab spaces and hospitality-driven environments. The goal was to create a cohesive atmosphere where the architecture, inspired by local geology, frames a central plaza dedicated to community and wellness.

Opti-Fit’s Approach

In collaboration with Stretch Affect, Opti-Fit spearheaded a holistic design strategy that prioritized the “hospitality-focused” tenant experience. The approach moved beyond the traditional gym layout by:

  • Programming Integration: Selecting every piece of equipment to specifically support Stretch Affect’s specialized health and wellness programming.

  • Indoor-Outdoor Flow: Curating custom outdoor fitness solutions to take advantage of San Diego’s climate and the campus’s multi-functional central plaza.

  • Holistic Wellness: Shifting the focus from mere exercise to a complete cycle of performance and restoration.

The Solution

Opti-Fit delivered a state-of-the-art wellness suite that balances high-intensity training with advanced recovery, including:

  • Curated Equipment Mix: A blend of elite cardio and strength machines designed for a sophisticated professional demographic.

  • Custom Outdoor Solutions: Weather-resistant equipment designed for fresh-air workouts.

  • Advanced Recovery Zone: Integration of a dedicated recovery suite featuring a cold plunge, sauna, and specialized recovery chairs to foster mental rejuvenation and physical longevity.

Key vendor partners for the project included:

  • Matrix: For premium cardio and integrated strength technology.

  • Atlantis: For high-end, bio-mechanically precise strength equipment.

  • BeaverFit: For custom, ruggedized outdoor fitness and functional training rigs.

The Result

The Pacific Center Wellness Center has become the cornerstone of this premier life sciences ecosystem. By integrating cutting-edge recovery elements with a hospitality-inspired design, the space does more than facilitate workouts—it inspires productivity, fosters community innovation, and enhances the overall well-being of the scientists and professionals shaping the future of discovery.

Consultant: Stephan Hermann

Sterling Bay
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