Yoga has become an integral part of many people’s lives, with its benefits extending far beyond the physical realm. For those who have been fortunate enough to find a local studio that suits their needs, a far-flung yoga retreat may be the ultimate escape. However, for those who can’t or won’t venture far, a backyard yoga studio can be a godsend.

Although backyard yoga studios may seem like an aspirational luxury, they can also be a practical solution for those who want to practice yoga regularly but don’t have the space or budget for a traditional studio. And what’s more, these studios can make your yoga time more intentional and accessible.

For some, investing in a backyard yoga studio is a necessity rather than a luxury. Take, for example, Laurie Elcoate May, a yoga teacher from Somerset, England, who built a studio in her garden after realizing she needed a dedicated space to continue her yoga business. May documented the build on YouTube and began to film and share her online classes, which helped her to connect with her community and share her passion for yoga.

May’s experience is not unique, and many people have found that building a backyard yoga studio has been a game-changer for their practice. Whether it’s the sense of community that comes with sharing a space with others or the personal benefits of having a dedicated space to practice, a backyard yoga studio can be a powerful tool for those who want to deepen their practice.

But how do you design a backyard yoga studio that truly meets your needs? According to architect João Brás Filipe, it all starts with creating a vision for your space’s functionality, movement, and flow. This involves taking cues from the environment of your backyard and planning accordingly.

“In yoga studios, we strive to design spaces that feel both grounded and expansive, offering a retreat where one can connect with both their inner self and the surrounding landscape,” says Filipe. “This means taking cues from the environment of your backyard and planning accordingly.”

One of Madeiguincho’s builds, a stunning home garden yoga studio in Cascais, near Lisbon, visually represents this point. The space is positioned to showcase views of the property while keeping the energy contained. Plus, there’s plenty of light.

“Light plays a crucial role in shaping this experience, diffusing through skylights, frosted glass, or subtle openings ensuring a gentle, soothing atmosphere,” says Filipe. “We explore materials, textures, and overall ambiance, often through mock-ups that allow us to test and refine elements like wood finishes and color tones.”

When designing a backyard yoga studio, there are several things to consider. According to May, one of the most important factors is the materials and attention to detail. “Keep in mind where in the world you live and what seasons are like where you are,” she says. “If I had my time in that studio again, I would have invested in more insulation from the beginning—definitely something we’ve learned from and factored into our second yoga studio build!”

Filipe suggests relying on harder woods that can withstand frequent use for flooring, along with generally weather-resistant materials to enhance longevity. In terms of the structure’s materials and color, keeping things on the lighter side lends to a pleasant atmosphere—and allows the shed to play well with natural light.

Whether your backyard yoga studio is a custom creation or a literal shed that you’ve reimagined, the intention remains the same: creating a space you love, and that feels like you, in support of your practice.

In short, a backyard yoga studio is more than just a shed.