From Space to Place: Business Feng Shui for a Yoga Studio in the Algarve
An acquaintance shared on Instagram that she was looking for ideas for the interior design of her new yoga studio. Since I truly appreciate her work, I took a closer look at the space, reflected on it — and we began a conversation.
The Starting Point: A Space Full of Possibilities
The space was bright, spacious, and very minimal. A lot of white, a lot of grey, clean lines — the Metal element was clearly present: structure, order, precision. A solid foundation — still waiting to feel like a place to land.
Her wish was to create a place where people not only come to co-work or work-out, but where they love to stay. And like to come back - to connect and to create.
This multipurpose studio is full of potential — with a little attention it could feel more welcoming and inviting.
Working with the Elements — Step by Step
In developing the concept, I consciously worked through the Feng Shui elements:
Metal as the foundation of the room, standing for clarity and structure.
Water through a mirror that is placed at the side and the color black in the existing furniture to ensure flow and openness.
Wood through furniture, plants and the folding screen represents growth and vitality.
Earth through terracotta tones, natural colors and textiles for grounding, warmth and stability.
By incorporating these elements, the space starts to feel balanced and in harmony.
An important feature became the round, abstract focal point on the back wall.
It offers visual orientation, gathers the gaze — and acts as an energetic anchor within the room.
And gradually, the space evolved into something that is not only functional, but emotionally supportive.
Balancing the elements and creating clear, welcoming areas where people genuinely enjoy spending time.
Preserving Openness, Softening Transitions
The windows were intentionally kept free to allow light, air, and a healthy flow of chi. At the same time, the hard edges of the window frames were softened with light curtains.
In addition, I defined clear yet open zones within the space. Rather than separating areas with solid walls, I worked with subtle boundaries.
A wooden folding screen creates a distinct workspace behind it — a place where people can concentrate without feeling observed. At the same time, during a yoga class, participants feel protected from the activity in the coworking area. The separation works both ways, offering privacy without isolation.
The clothing rack also found a new position closer to the entrance. Besides strengthening the boutique area, it now serves a second purpose: gently blocking the direct line of sight from the yoga space to the restroom. This small adjustment enhances comfort and spatial harmony without closing the room.
Intuitive Feng Shui and the Bagua Perspective
What makes my approach distinctive is that it is not purely schematic. I worked with the Bagua — but I also listened to the space and to the wishes of the studio owner.
In this space, it became intuitively clear that the part you can see on the picture, the Wealth area (located in the back left corner of the Bagua), required special attention. This area was intentionally strengthened — not as a promise of results, but as an invitation to greater abundance, trust, and stability.
Inspiration — and Strategic Support for Businesses
This concept is intentionally not a set of instructions, but an inspiration. What is implemented, when, and at what pace, is always a personal choice. Every business evolves differently — and spaces should be allowed to evolve with them.
At the same time, Feng Shui is more than aesthetics.
In a business context, it can support clarity, focus, client experience and long-term growth. A well-balanced space strengthens presence, builds trust and creates an atmosphere where people feel comfortable — whether they come to work, to practice, or to connect.
For me, Feng Shui is not a rigid system of rules, but a dialogue — between space, people, purpose and vision.
And sometimes, that begins with an Instagram story — and grows into a beautiful concept that supports not only harmony, but the direction of a business.
