yess yoga - minneapolis, mn

Yess Yoga is an inclusive and accessible community that brings everyday magic and growth into our world to create peace. They foster light-hearted and authentic connections between self, each other, and the universe at large. Yess had outgrown their small and charming, yet deteriorating studio and had a need for more space and a desire to stay close to their neighborhood home.

The new program included two large yoga studios, welcoming entry and gathering areas, and three small wellness rooms for outside practitioners. The building is envisioned as a serene sanctuary that retains an open connection to the active street life around it. As you enter the front door, you are met with a series of turns, each designed to further disconnect you from the outside. You are invited to remove your shoes and forget the stresses of the outside world as you progress further into the space.

Our concept for the project was for balance between activity and rest, energy and calm, connection and solitude. For the exterior composition, we chose a limited palette of dark bronze (metal panels and glazing), contrasted with white (Nichiha cladding and smooth burnished block). We created a playful facade of simple alternating dark and light forms, that results in a sense of serenity and balance.

The interior palette is also limited to white, wood, and bronze with accents of orange hues and greenery. White oak is used for flooring and millwork throughout the space and exposed wood trusses compliment the floor in warm tones. Extensive glazing along with an indoor forest provide a sense of connection with nature in the middle of an urban neighborhood. The serene environment is punctuated by moments of surprise, designed to create an overall space that people will want to preserve for years to come

Project Team:

Construction - Kalcon LLC

Photography - Brandon Stengel, Farmkid Studios