Ebbrell Architecture + Design completes Core Cove Fitness and Wellness Studio in Ashland, MA

Ashland, MA Ebbrell Architecture + Design has completed the design of Core Cove, a new fitness and wellness studio. Located within a new mixed-use development at 12 Pond St., the project transformed a raw commercial shell into a functional, welcoming studio that supports multiple wellness uses while adding to the neighborhood’s growing mix of small businesses, services, and amenities.

Core Cove owner Belsy Gonzalez, who also owns a medical spa in Sherborn, Mass., wanted to create a studio that felt approachable to a broad range of clients. “I wanted Core Cove to feel welcoming and comfortable, not intimidating,” said Gonzalez.

Lauren Foley, NCIDQ, LEED GA, interior designer at Ebbrell Architecture + Design, said Gonzalez provided extensive vision boards as a starting point. “The owner has a strong sense of her brand and therefore made quick decisions,” said Foley. “It was a really fun collaboration to take her vision and translate it into something literal.”

The project required making a compact footprint work hard without feeling crowded or overly programmed. Foley developed a layout that supports a clear arrival sequence, efficient movement between spaces, and privacy for wellness and changing areas. She also helped Gonzalez think through the client experience in practical terms, from where members would remove coats and boots in the winter without bottlenecking to how the check-in, retail, fitness, and recovery areas would relate to one another.

Lighting was also a major focus of the design. “Lighting has a huge impact on how people perceive and experience a space,” said Foley. “For Core Cove, it was important that the lighting feel balanced and consistent, and that every detail work together to create a calm, and soothing environment.”

The design also uses warm materials and softened edges, such as arch-top mirrors, to create an interior that feels upscale and luxurious without relying on overly expensive materials. The studio takes advantage of three operable garage doors that add a lot of natural light and will allow for open-air classes while the privacy film creates a “jewel box effect” from the street, people are going to want to know what is inside.

The Ebbrell team also helped coordinate practical project requirements, including accessibility and code considerations. For Gonzalez, that level of planning was one of the biggest benefits.

“This was my first time working with an architect,” said Gonzalez. “Lauren and the Ebbrell team took my ideas, my budget, and my images and made them realistic. They managed details I would never have thought of. They were incredibly professional and made the process seamless. They did great work.”

Miika Ebbrell, AIA, LEED AP, principal of Ebbrell Architecture + Design, said Core Cove reflects the firm’s approach to helping business owners and commercial clients create spaces that are both attractive and practical.

“Core Cove is a strong example of how design supports business strategy,” said Ebbrell. “Belsy had a clear vision for the client experience, and Lauren translated that into a space that is efficient, buildable, welcoming, and prepared to serve the business well for years to come.”

Ebbrell Architecture + Design is a Massachusetts-certified Woman-owned Business Enterprise licensed in MA, CT, ME, NH, NJ, RI, and VT. The company is comprised of a small group of talented, experienced design and architecture professionals who pride themselves on being flexible, responsive, honest, diligent, energetic, and highly creative. Ebbrell team members possess specialized design expertise in a wide range of project types, from office and lab/technical projects to recreation and educational/institutional design. Ebbrell Architecture + Design offers its clients big company talent with small company service and value. To learn more visit www.ebbrelldesign.com.