This simple, earthy and art-filled yoga studio in Surat

For the Yoga with Pooja studio in Surat, Hundred Designs takes the simple route, with free-flowing spaces and engaging wall art.

Curated by: Deepa Nair
Photographs: Nilkanth Bharucha; courtesy Hundred Designs

The brief

Set amidst the newly developing Vesu area of Surat (in a commercial complex) is Yoga with Pooja, a yoga studio designed by Hundred Designs. The clients approached architects Mallika A Dhabuwala and Abhishek Dhabuwala, co-founders of Hundred Designs with a simple brief. As they were moving from a small studio to this 1,230-square-foot space they wanted the design to allow conducting two classes simultaneously; and also have a single space for workshops, social gatherings, shoots etc. They also the architects to “stick to the principles of simplicity” and adhere strictly to the budget.

The design intent

“As the site was set in busy environs which is contrary to the needs of a yoga studio, we looked at designing a space that makes one look inward, and develop a connection with the soul. The studio does not have a single focal point but one is surprised by various design elements that catch the eye and augment the mood of the space; still surprisingly maintains simplicity throughout the space, sticking to the core values yoga imparts to us,” explain the architects. The use of bold colours and warm textures in the space takes one into a Zen mode with elements that helps one connect with their mind, body and soul.

The civil intervention

Originally, the studio was divided into two units with a partition in between… it was broken down to make it one large space. Further, the architects also had to rework the plumbing lines for the washrooms and pantry. After the reworking, Yoga with Pooja is now divided into an entrance/lobby space, a waiting area on one side, and a large studio space partitioned by folding doors.

The spatial configurations

An arched metal door opens into the entrance lobby and the waiting area beyond. Another arched door leads to the meeting area with an AUM on the central wall crafted beautifully in thread art. The bespoke traditional furniture used in this area adds to the Indian vibe. A door from the lobby would lead one to the large yoga studio which features lovely artwork on the walls and ceiling. A set of sliding folding doors divides the space into two to conduct two classes as and when required. The circular sitting in one studio on the partition wall makes a space for the instructor to sit or just a “photo-op” space which is balanced by the circular window in the other studio. The unique mat storage also has impressive artwork in the background. The sitting adjoining the windows make space for reading and conversations. The partition wall having patterns in grooves camouflages the doors leading to the meditation area and the service area, adding an element of surprise.

The material palette

A simple material palette is followed throughout the studio. The colourful tiles on the floor give the feel of a rug and makes one feel warm and welcomed. The partitions (with grooved patterns) are made in MDF and coloured in warm tones. While the furniture has been designed in saag wood and cane by the design team and executed on site; the artwork (also created by the design team) was executed by Artifest Craft.

The highlights

The architects share: The design revolves around various focal points — the artwork on the walls (extending to the ceiling) featuring contemporary form of yoga poses making for a happy sight when one enters the studio. The AUM in thread art is the first thing you see when you enter the space and you are carried to a peaceful meditative zone cutting off from the hustle of daily life for a while. The circular sitting beneath an artsy tree shade makes a perfect place for some me-time.

Fact file

Project: Asana Aesthetic
Client: Yoga with Pooja
Location: Surat
Area: 1,230 sq ft
Principal architects: Mallika A Dhabuwala and Abhishek Dhabuwala
Wall art: Artifest Craft