Finding the Right Property

‍

We were approached with an ambitious brief by the owner of Étage. Having spent years as a professional dancer, the owner wanted to create a space that truly understood the technical demands of dance, while also providing an environment that felt inspiring and community-focused.

Our involvement began long before the design process. Over the course of almost a year, we worked alongside the client to find the right property, carrying out feasibility reviews and assessing budget, operational requirements and long-term potential. This early due diligence enabled the client to make an informed decision before committing to a lease.

‍

The search ultimately led to a 4,000 sq ft industrial commercial unit in the heart of East London. Based on our feasibility assessment and commercial advice, the client proceeded with confidence, and signed the lease on what would become Étage Dance Studio.

‍

Designing Around Movement

‍

The space needed to accommodate a wide range of disciplines, from ballet and ballroom to contemporary dance and wellness classes. This meant integrating sprung flooring, carefully considered acoustics, climate control and ventilation systems.

‍

Working closely with Building Control, we coordinated ventilation and fire safety compliance, ensuring the studio met both its technical performance standards and statutory obligations.

‍

The space also needed to remain flexible enough to host events, photography and commercial productions, creating opportunities for the business to evolve beyond its primary function.

‍

Transforming the Industrial Shell

‍

Rather than disguising the building's industrial history, we transformed it through a series of careful interventions that balanced refinement with flexibility.

‍

Inspired by classical architecture, the interior combines a restrained colour palette with elegant detailing, creating a timeless backdrop that enhances rather than competes with movement. Every decision was made to support the experience of dancers while maintaining the versatility required for multiple uses.

‍

A professional grade sprung floor was integrated into the design, while the spatial layout prioritised generous circulation, uninterrupted sightlines and maximum usable floor area. Soft, diffused lighting creates an atmosphere that is equally suited to rehearsals, performances, photography and filming.

‍

Beyond the studio floor, minimalist changing facilities, bespoke furniture and carefully designed breakout areas create a welcoming environment that encourages community. Throughout the project, we worked with both local craftspeople and international suppliers to source materials, finishes and furnishings that delivered the desired aesthetic.

‍

The Commercial Potential

‍

Since opening, Étage has grown into far more than a dance studio. It has established itself as one of East London's most distinctive creative spaces, hosting a daily programme of dance and wellness classes while attracting photography, filming and commercial productions.

‍

The flexibility designed into the space has allowed the owner to diversify the business by hiring the studio for creative projects, generating an additional revenue stream beyond its core operation. The interiors have featured in high-profile creative campaigns, including content produced in collaboration with SKIMS, alongside filming for established television productions.

‍

Étage demonstrates our approach to commercial architecture: helping clients make better property decisions from day one. Through early feasibility advice, technical expertise and carefully considered design, we transformed an industrial shell into a high-performing commercial space that continues to create value for the client's business long after completion.

‍

Projects like Étage begin long before the design phase.

‍

Our Pre Lease Design & Feasibility Review helps clients identify the right property, reduce risk and make confident investment decisions before committing to a lease.

‍