Beyond the walls and flooring, a yoga studio's design influences how patrons feel as soon as they enter. A space where movement meets mindfulness, where stillness holds meaning, and where the outside world fades away for a little while. A setup where mindfulness comes easily is created by a well-designed space that nurtures movement, silence, and focus. Setting the correct energy involves every little aspect, from the texture of the walls to the way light flows through the space. 

In a city as busy as our capital, finding peace is not always easy. That is where good design makes a difference.  KOA, a yoga centre in Banani, is a prime example of how architecture can create a spiritual space within an urban landscape.

Designed by Studio Orange Architects and furnished by ETHA, KOA brings together wood, bamboo, and cement to craft a space that is raw yet intentional, structured yet organic. 

"The goal was to duplicate the serenity of rural life," explains designer Md Abdul Awyal. The cement-textured walls and wooden floors carry the natural imprint of the grain, creating an earthy and grounding feel. The philosophy was to let the materials speak for themselves. "It's a beautiful mess," Awyal describes, "without needing too much finishing." 

An open space with a subtle flow

Yoga is about fluidity, and the space should reflect that. At KOA, glass partitions with wooden frames create divisions without cutting off openness. They let natural light seep through, keeping the space airy and connected while adding a touch of warmth.  The exposed structure, with its visible beams and ducts, adds an edge to the otherwise organic setting.

Colour plays a quiet role in yoga spaces. Too much, and it disrupts the calm; too little, and it risks feeling sterile. KOA finds the balance.

"There's no use of too much colour," Awyal notes, "but the tools are a little colourful, with art." Subtle accents through art and accessories bring in personality without overwhelming the senses, ensuring that the space remains meditative and serene. 

Handcrafted for connection

A well-designed yoga studio should engage more than just sight — it should be felt. That is why KOA relies on handcrafted elements from furniture to partitions, all made with bamboo, wood, and jute. These materials bring a tactile comfort, reinforcing the connection between the body, space, and nature. 

"Yoga is spiritual. It needed to be calm and serene," says Awyal. Every inch of the space reflects this belief. Instead of just being a room for movement, KOA becomes a part of the practice itself, guiding the mind toward stillness, focus, and inner peace. 

A retreat within the city 

Designing a yoga studio is about finding a balance between structure and softness, light and shadow, openness and retreat. A space designed for mindfulness should feel effortless, allowing those who step inside to instantly disconnect from the noise outside. KOA proves that even in the heart of a bustling city, tranquillity can be built.

Photo: Maruf Raihan