Suffice to say that the fitness expertise of a former dancer is usually worth trusting, but that’s only part of the reason we’ve cottoned on to the opening of Heather Andersen’s second boutique pilates location in New York City. New York Pilates Soho follows the studio’s Washington Square location, which opened in 2013.

The clean aesthetic of the zen-like space is the other reason. Complete with whitewash brick walls, candlelit bathrooms and sports-stadium-esque benches that double as storage, it has core strength devotees flocking to partake in intelligent workouts on spring-based resistance beds in a chic, contemporary space, while exuding minimalist cool and still being warm and welcoming.

Anderson’s husband and business partner Brion Isaacs, owner and creative director of Rivington Design House, designed both spaces. ‘We collaborated on everything with a focus on flow, vibe, function and beauty,’ says Andersen. ‘[Isaacs] creates immersive experiences that highlight the sophistication of New York City, while transporting you to another place. We wanted it to feel authentic, clean and simple – no detail is overlooked.’