Inside The Forge: A healing Space Designed by Studio Yarner in Totnes, Devon
Nestled in the historic heart of Totnes, Devon, The Forge is a pioneering wellness centre, with interior design by Studio Yarner. This boutique healing centre, located on the site of the town’s original blacksmiths’ forge, is the first flotation therapy centre of its kind in the South West. Designed as an oasis of calm and restoration, The Forge embraces trauma-informed interior design principles to foster healing, comfort, and connection.The Project Vision: A Dual-Purpose Sanctuary
The client’s brief was clear: to create a space that serves both local residents seeking support and contemplation, and visitors to the South Hams pursuing a luxurious wellness experience. Studio Yarner’s approach combined functional efficiency with emotional resonance, ensuring that the design supports both therapists and customers. This dual-purpose guided every aspect of the project - from spatial flow to material selection, resulting in a wellness destination that is both accessible and elevated.
Reception area at the Forge, Totnes
Creating a Residential, Restorative Atmosphere
Spread across two floors, the compact rooms of The Forge evoke a residential atmosphere focused on intimacy, comfort, and calm. Studio Yarner applied trauma-informed design principles by carefully selecting materials, finishes, and lighting to create a sensory-rich, grounded environment. Low-level and layered lighting throughout the space promotes a welcoming, soothing ambience, avoiding any clinical harshness. A light and uplifting colour palette, combined with warm accents in furnishings, adds depth and personality, enhancing the overall sense of wellbeing.Materials and Craftsmanship Rooted in Devon Vernacular
Natural textures are central to The Forge’s aesthetic. Retained timber beams and wood panelling contribute to the warm, domestic feel, while bespoke joinery crafted from locally sourced oak strengthens the connection to nature - a key element of trauma-informed design. Durable stone flooring and slate worktops nod to Devon’s architectural heritage, grounding the interiors firmly in their regional context. Each room flows seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive space that balances practical requirements with emotional needs.
Upstairs Lobby at the Forge, Totnes
Designing for Wellness: Lighting, Colour, and Flow
Lighting plays a vital role in the experience of The Forge. Studio Yarner used layered lighting to sculpt the space, providing gentle illumination that supports relaxation and mindfulness. The chosen palette of soft, natural colours uplifts the atmosphere without overwhelming the senses. Thoughtful room layout ensures a smooth transition between treatment and communal areas, reinforcing the centre's holistic healing philosophy.The Finished Space: A New Landmark for Wellness in Totnes
Opened in June 2025, The Forge offers a unique destination for restorative health therapies, combining innovative flotation therapy, complementary therapies and various practices of Yoga in an environment designed for deep healing. The space serves as both a sanctuary for local residents and a luxurious wellness retreat, and it embodies Studio Yarner’s commitment to creating interiors that nourish the body and mind.
Treatment room at the Forge, Totnes
About Studio Yarner
Based in South Devon, Studio Yarner creates soulful and practical interiors which draw from the local context to inspire joy, wellbeing and human connection. Winner of Homes & Gardens’ Next in Design 2025, the studio is passionate about blending craftsmanship, natural materials, and design intelligence and rigorous project management to deliver spaces that feel both rooted and refined.Interested in Designing Your Own Commercial Space?
Discover how Studio Yarner can help you create interiors that nurture and inspire. Get in touch or explore more of our projects here.