How to Design Your Reformer Pilates Studio Space

Designing your Reformer Pilates studio space is an exciting opportunity for you to start your brand, develop your business or refresh an existing space. There are a few things to think about to get the balance right and make your reformer Pilates studio a place that your customers keep coming back to. 

Key takeaways:

• Neutral colours keep your space calm and inviting
• Try soundproofing your room for better acoustics 
• Look for folding Pilates beds to make the most of small spaces and multi-purpose studios 

What makes a great reformer Pilates studio design?

There is no specific way to design a reformer Pilates studio. In fact, incorporating some of your own unique style will help you to stand out from the crowd. However, there are a few things to think about when it comes to how the space should feel. 

You’ll want to make sure that there’s enough space in the room, not only for beds but for walking around the class, entry ways, waiting areas and storage too. But you don’t want it to be messy. Since Pilates is a mindful movement, it’s good to mimic that with your room decor. Keep it clutter-free and choose an aesthetic that will help your customers feel relaxed. It’s quite common to have a neutral colour palette with natural elements, like wood and bamboo furniture for this reason. 

How much space do you need?

The best way to figure out how much space you have and how many reformer Pilates beds you can fit into your studio is to create a floor plan. Mark entries, exits, waiting rooms and any storage areas. Then place your reformers into the design, leaving enough room for your clients to do exercises off the bed and for you to walk around while teaching. A good idea is to place your reformer beds against the walls and leave an open area in the middle. 

While it can be tempting to fill your class with lots of clients, it’s more important that you have the space to create a comfortable and peaceful class. For that reason, it might be better to have fewer beds. 

What equipment do you need?

Of course, the most essential pieces of equipment are your Pilates reformer beds. When choosing a bed, look for a durable design that can withstand frequent classes and, if you’re using your space for other activities, you may also want to consider a folding design for easy storage. 

Not only do Original FOLD Reformers collapse into a compact and storable size but they’re customisable in two types of wood and a choice of four vegan leather upholsteries. The patent-pending Easi-Fold™ design makes them effortless to pack away, helping to speed up your studio set up. Plus, each bed comes with a jumpboard, Pilates mat, ring and ball as well as dumbbells – all essential equipment for opening your Pilates studio. 

Aside from that, you may also consider:

• Mirrors 
• Easy-to-wipe, non-slip flooring 
• Lighting
• Storage solutions
• Fans
• Sanitising stations

Become a Fold Studio Partner with our commercial machines to support you in developing your studio.

How to create the perfect mood

Ambience is important for your studio and it’s about balancing the lighting and acoustics. Typically, reformer Pilates studios have warm-coloured lighting, rather than bright white light. A good idea is to get dimmable lights so you can change the brightness depending on the time of day.

It’s also a great idea to use windows to your advantage. Natural light can create a calming presence, especially if there’s the chance of a sunrise or sunset. 

You can also create an atmosphere in your classes by using background music. Curating a playlist can give your sessions a certain vibe but will also work as a cue to keep your routine on track. 

And, if you’re in a particularly noisy area, you might also consider soundproofing your Pilates studio so that your clients are fully able to unwind. 

What about branding?

Once you’ve got all the basic foundations covered, it’s time to move onto the parts of your studio that really make it feel like you. 

• What branding will you have? 
• Is there anything signature about your studio that you won’t find in others? 
• Will you have slogans?
• Photos? 
• A unique smell?
• Accented pops of colour?

Get creative and be playful, drawing yourself back to your brand and the type of atmosphere that you want to create. 

FAQs 

Can I create a studio if I only have a small space?

Absolutely! Choosing folding reformer Pilates beds will help you make the most of your space. Don’t be tempted to cram everything in. Think about space around the bed and around the class as well as where you will have your storage units.

How do you make a calming environment in a multi-purpose studio?

Stick to neutral colours and opt for dimmable or colour-changing lights which can be used on a warm setting for a reformer Pilates class and a vibrant setting for more energetic events. 

What does every reformer Pilates studio need?

Every reformer Pilates studio needs: reformer Pilates beds, mats, mood lighting (natural or from light bulbs), supportive flooring, space considerations and a welcoming vibe. The extras that you add on are up to you.