Brand design, in-store graphics and interior design of The House Of Yoga, an inclusive yoga studio located in Brussels that aims at helping people get closer to the kind of yoga that works best for them -no matter their age, gender and body flexibility- while reconnecting with their deepest self. The space, a fully renovated former import/export shop, has a surface of 180 sq.m. and features 4 wide rooms in a row.

To translate the vision of the yoga studio into the design of the space we brought to life an earthy and rough environment, filled with neutral colours and natural materials, where everyone can feel welcomed, grounded, and connected with their body and soul: unpolished walls, terracotta tones, bamboo, rattan, cotton and organic shapes work in harmony to encourage a sense of calmness, safety and warmth. Curved lines are used throughout the space to add movement and that sense of flow and evolution which are linked to yoga, while helping spread a feeling of kindness and inclusion in an otherwise squared and linear space.

Inspired by the architectural features of the studio and the lack of natural light, we decided to create an intimate yoga shelter, with references to Moroccan decor and Hammam architecture: a regular sequence of rooms brings members from the reception hall to the yoga room, located at the back of the studio, passing through a community area for gathering and enjoying a cup of tea before each session; a series of changing rooms with archways has been imagined from scratch next to the yoga room.

As the whole interior lacks of natural light, artificial lighting plays here a fundamental role: rattan shades creating soft shadows, dreamy light chains hung on the ceiling and modern spotlights for general lighting balance each other to bring to life a cosy, calming yet functional space. In order to allow natural light to enter into the yoga room, we opened two skylights in the ceiling. We eventually added warm-light led stripes in the yoga room to create a soft and relaxing atmosphere during evening classes. A beautiful bespoke glass door separates the yoga room from the rest of the space, while allowing light to pass through.

A calming colour scheme made of earthy and nude tones, powder pink and terracotta shades ties together the design of the studio: lighter tones are used in the communal areas, while deeper shades darken the walls of changing rooms, kitchen and service area. Black metal details and colourful cushions are the only elements that create contrast and depth in an otherwise monotone interior. A neon light saying “All we have is now” on the reception wall invites yoga students to leave daily stress and thoughts outside the door, so to focus on the present moment.

This project has been shortlisted for the Brussels Commerce Design Awards 2023.

Pictures by Elodie Deceuninck