Movement, breath, and material: Designing a Pilates studio

In the center of Petah Tikva, inside an old industrial space full of partitions, a new gem has emerged: Studio Natalie for Pilates and Yoga — a quiet, embracing, and precise space, meticulously designed by interior designer Aliza Cohen, who specializes in creating connections between design, function, and the spirit of the place.

The challenge was clear from the very beginning: A closed space, crowded with walls and structural columns, meant to become a home for movement, focus, and calm. “My goal was to create a space as open as possible, while working with the existing structure,” explains interior designer Aliza Cohen. The result — a bright, open yet intimate space that connects body and mind, material and softness.

At the entrance to the studio, a foyer unfolds, paved with concrete- and terrazzo-like tiles from Negev. The light concrete-toned tiles create a sense of cleanliness and lightness, defining the reception and waiting area with a soft contrast to the rest of the studio. The central area, designated for Pilates and yoga sessions, is covered in light, natural oak parquet — warm, calming, and harmoniously blending with the rest of the space. This choice creates a material contrast that feels organic: On one hand, an industrial-urban look; on the other, inviting warmth — a perfect blend for the world of movement.

The columns left at the center of the space were transformed into design elements: They were clad in exposed concrete, and one of them was fitted with built-in fixtures for training mats — a functional solution that maintains the clean design language. The ceiling was also exposed and retained in a raw look that complements the sense of authenticity and freedom.

The design aims to soften and calm while maintaining a contemporary look: Shades of cashmere, linen, oak wood, concrete, combined with green plants that blend in as a living and breathing element. Recessed lighting illuminates the central areas with wide beams, while above the reception area a minimalist hanging light fixture was installed — precise in both function and aesthetics.

The carpentry solutions, custom-designed for the studio, were built to adapt to the building’s constraints — between columns, in the form of recessed wall lockers, and in open and closed storage areas. Every detail was designed to remain minimalist yet accommodate everything needed — and more.

A slatted oak wood partition gently separates spaces without blocking light or the sense of flow. The ceiling in the entrance area was clad with white wood chips and warm lighting, giving the foyer an almost homely atmosphere. Every detail supports the experience of the practitioners — mirrors, accessories, minimalistic sand-toned blinds, and fresh greenery from Gan Yarak nursery.

The studio, as defined by the interior designer, is “a space that connects body and design, tranquility and functionality, and further proof that precise interior design can transform life experiences.”