Simone Ferkul Designs a Serene Wellness Hub for Solis East Toronto
Simone Ferkul Projects has created a serene wellness destination at Solis East in Toronto, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The 7,750-square-foot studio provides a holistic experience, meticulously crafted to guide members through their fitness journey. From the moment of arrival, the design emphasizes material, light, and bespoke elements to create an atmosphere of calm and rejuvenation.
The experience at Solis East begins with an elevator ascent and a walk across a sky bridge, leading to an ethereal reception and communal lounge. Here, a warm, marble-patterned central desk, softly illuminated by a ceiling skylight and cloud-like pendant lights from Molo Designs, sets a welcoming tone. This inviting entrance transitions seamlessly into changing rooms, where illuminated niches in Abet Laminati-finished millwork cleverly integrate storage, retail, and circulation, blurring the lines between these functions. The open lounge area features custom-designed couches and tables, crafted by Morphe Contract in Ferkul's distinctive sculptural style, fostering a communal environment where visitors and staff can relax between classes.
Drawing on insights from Solis's earlier locations, Simone Ferkul incorporated essential community amenities and discreet storage solutions for industrial-grade cleaning equipment, maintaining the studio's spa-like tranquility. The lighting, a collaborative effort between Simone Ferkul, Anony, and Vyvyd lighting, plays a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere. The Reformer Pilates studio is bathed in natural light from expansive windows, while the Sun Room, dedicated to hot yoga and mat Pilates, uses infrared heating panels and layered lighting to create an immersive, sensory experience. A spacious corridor displays color-coordinated Pilates equipment, adding a sense of ritual to preparation. During classes, natural light filters through the blinds, enhancing the feeling of warmth and intensity.
The cooldown and recovery phases are equally well-thought-out. The showers and locker rooms are generously sized, featuring warm materials and flattering lighting that invite moments of reflection. Before returning to the urban environment, members can refill their water bottles at a ceremonial filling station, an elevated trough with a quartz pattern that transforms hydration into a sacred ritual amidst lively post-workout conversations.
The studio’s thoughtful design, from grand architectural gestures to the smallest functional details, defines its unique identity. These carefully curated elements are what truly distinguish the fitness experience at Solis East, setting it apart in a rapidly evolving wellness industry.