Local yoga favourite Phoenix Yoga will remain at its current location on Upper Richmond Road after months of uncertainty caused by the collapse of neighbouring business Heba Pilates.
Neighbouring Heba studio, which operated five branches across London, has officially entered liquidation with a reported debt of £1.9 million. Phoenix Yoga had paid – and has now lost – a rent deposit of approximately £10,000 to Heba. However, the liquidation has opened the door for Phoenix to take decisive steps toward securing its future.
Long-term plans
Studio directors confirmed they will be staying at 230 Upper Richmond Road, having signed a short-term Tenancy at Will and begun negotiations on a long-term 15-year lease. The landlord will also construct a partition wall to create a clearer boundary between spaces, while the Phoenix team is evaluating options to enhance facilities, including a new male changing area in the basement.
Plans to expand into the adjacent 228 Upper Richmond Road studio have been shelved due to significant refurbishment costs estimated at a minimum of £50,000. The space, left in disrepair following Heba’s exit, would require extensive upgrades including new drainage systems, heating, and full interior renovation. Unable to reach a fair cost-sharing agreement with the landlord, Phoenix has decided not to take over the unit.
Upgrade
Instead, the focus now shifts to upgrading their current home. The reception area and changing rooms are set for a long-awaited refresh, and the team is aiming to grow the studio into a true community hub for wellness and connection.
“It’s exciting – and a bit daunting,” Phoenix Yoga told regulars. “While we know some were looking forward to a bigger space, most of our community is relieved and happy to be staying in our beautiful studio. We’re here to stay and ready to build something even better.”
Local residents can expect more updates from Phoenix in the coming weeks as renovation plans take shape.
