Studio to Offer Infrared Heated Classes and Yoga for Kids in a Larger, Community-Focused Space
Yoga Off East is thrilled to announce its expansion and relocation from 9th Street to the American Tobacco Campus this fall. The move marks a significant milestone as the studio grows and enriches its offerings for the Durham yoga community.
Located at 324 Blackwell Street, Suite 420, above Parker & Otis, the 2,300-square-foot space will accommodate 40 mats, nearly tripling its current class size capacity. The new location will be the yoga studio’s third home in Durham. Founder and Duke alum Kathryn Smith opened Yoga Off East in a 400-square-foot space in the back of 9th Street’s Happy & Hale in 2016 before moving to its current location across the street in 2019.
With this move, Smith is teaming up with friend and fellow teacher Kim Tupper (who completed her 200-hour teacher training at Yoga Off East!) to co-own the studio. The duo will both teach regularly. With thoughtfully designed spaces like a tea bar and space to read, Smith and Tupper hope to create an intentional and inviting space for its community to mingle and connect before and after class.
“Our community of students and teachers has grown and it’s clear that having more space in and around the studio will elevate the Yoga Off East experience for all,” says Smith. “We are so energized by this expansion and look forward to inviting new and existing students to practice with us.”
Yoga Off East co-owners Kathryn Smith & Kim Tupper
Beyond regular classes, Yoga Off East will continue to offer monthly workshops, events and an annual teacher training. The new studio will also feature ceiling-mounted infrared heat panels for use in some weekly classes.
“This relocation represents more than just a physical move,” says Tupper. “Kathryn has built such an intentional community with her studio, and I am so grateful to partner with her as we take Yoga Off East into its next chapter.”
Pete McClure, CBC Real Estate’s Senior General Manager of American Tobacco Campus, expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition: “We are thrilled to welcome Yoga Off East to the American Tobacco Campus. Their commitment to wellness and community aligns perfectly with our vision for ATC. This new studio will be a wonderful addition for everyone here.”
Design partners include interior designer Kate Haynes of Noble Interiors and creative director Cait Wharton of Studio Millie. Amanda Giacomini of Ten Thousand Buddhas will paint a Buddha wall in blue hues at the new studio, continuing the tradition from the 9th Street location.
On the design, Haynes says, “Our design team found inspiration from the concept of balancing the weight of the existing architecture and the grounding essence of the old building, infusing it with a sense of lightness and movement. From the outset, we envisioned incorporating lots of white and accentuating the serene palette with vibrant, airy blues to energize the space.
”Further details on the grand opening will be announced at a later date. Classes will continue in Yoga Off East’s current space until the opening. Stay updated on the latest developments by visiting www.yogaoffeast.com or visiting Yoga Off East on Instagram.
About Yoga Off East:
Yoga Off East is a neighborhood studio created to connect and elevate Durham’s community through yoga. The studio offers energizing flow-based yoga and restorative classes, workshops, prenatal yoga series, and a 5-star rated Yoga Alliance 200-hr yoga teacher training.
Thanks to ATC’s Valerie Ward for this CapCom story & photos.
