The design of a home yoga studio should be done with the intention of creating a calming and peaceful environment for students. Colors should be soft and calming, and furniture should be comfortable yet functional. Lighting should be indirect and low-key, and artwork should be inspirational and calming.

When we become deeply immersed in a certain practice, there is often a desire to devote more time to it each day. More and more often I, as an interior designer, am asked to consider in the layout of the apartment a functional area where the owners could devote time to their chosen interest: it could be yoga, meditation, dance, sports, etc. This trend is very encouraging – because a prepared space motivates one to devote more time to it.

I would like to tell you what important points to consider when planning this area.

Breathing

There are practices based on physical activity, and there are those that appeal to more contemplative techniques, but the main foundation for the effectiveness of both will be the ability to breathe fully in the process of exercise. It is important to choose an “oxygen” place or initially take care that the room always has a supply of fresh air. This is probably the most basic point, as well as the process of breathing itself. All the other components of this task will be in second place.

Sunniness

Next, if we’re going to choose a place to practice, opt for a space where there’s more opportunity for daylight to penetrate. The changing rhythm of the day, the cycling of the seasons are directly related to our physical and emotional state. It is important to let sunlight into the room, which changes shades every hour. Then we can notice (even if unconsciously) sunrise, noon and sunset. If it is important for you to remain in complete darkness during your practice, then blackout roller blinds can be provided.

Support

In this case, the issue of floor finish comes to the forefront. The best solution for a private space is, in my opinion, wood (parquet, engineered, solid board). It is a natural warm material that provides a good grip on the surface. Ceramic tile is also a perfectly acceptable option. The only point: if you choose this material, it is a good idea to bring a warm floor in the study area and opt for a rough finish. The most undesirable material is carpeting – it absorbs a lot of dust and odors. Also, if there is a choice between 1 and 2 floors, it is better to opt for a lower more “grounded” version of the location).

Light

When choosing a light scenario in this room, you can move away from standard schemes. If your practice involves a process of inner concentration, you don’t have to plan for a flood of bright overhead lights at all. Make a few small lights around the perimeter of the ceiling that provide diffuse lighting rather than casting contrasting shadows. When designing a lighting project, I often plan to be able to place light sources that are at or below eye level (sconces, floor lamps, floor lamps, baseboard spotlights). This allows us to shift the focus of our mental activity from the outside world to the inside, to regulate the state depending on your tasks.

Consider the question of the connection of light sources with switches. It is good if it will be possible to divide them into groups, to be able to change lighting scenarios from tasks. A convenient solution is also the use of interior switches and dimmers. This way you will have the ability to adjust the light without leaving your mat. Be sure to check what type of bulb is suitable for the selected lights. I do not recommend using halogen bulbs in this area.

Walls

The design of the walls, of course, is influenced by the overall interior of the whole house and individual preferences. Here it is difficult to give any general recommendations. The only thing I would like to recommend is not to overload the space visually. Even if you know exactly what you want to place a certain image or do a mural … try waiting a couple of weeks. Study in a completely “neutral” space and maybe you’ll enjoy being present in a room that is free of any visual information. Then the issue of wall decor will resolve itself.

Sounds

At the stage of renovation, you can intelligently plan the audio system and the comfortable regulation of the music exactly where you want it. This will not overload the space with unnecessary wires and devices. Sometimes it is also worthwhile to consider the noise insulation of the room, depending on the type of practice. All these issues are good to work through during the development of the design project, if possible.

Objects

Of course, it is better to free this space from furniture as much as possible, but still a small cabinet (better with closed drawers) you will have to provide. It is a good idea to have on hand items that may come in hand during the practice (candles, aromatic oils, water, sports equipment, etc.).

A place of power

It’s great when the layout allows for a separate room for practice, but all of the above points also work for small separate areas within a common space. No matter how many square meters you have, a separate prepared space will help you get in the mood faster and immerse yourself in the process as much as possible.

Now I’ve described the ideal scenario when the room is just at the beginning of the renovation and there’s a lot to consider. But even if you want to adapt the existing space, I hope some tips you may also be useful. If you have any questions, email us! As part of the consultation, we can work together to create the most appropriate space for you.