Développé-ing the Design of a In-Home Dance Studio

Built for a family with growing daughters who are interested in dance, this simple, yet intricate, 250-square-foot space in an Illinois basement was created by 2017 Big50 company BDS Design Build Remodel of Libertyville, Ill.

After researching typical details that go into a ballet studio, principal Bryan Slowick and his team installed floor-to-ceiling mirrors around the circumference of the room, a professional rubber dance floor, and a ballet barre. A small viewing window was incorporated into the hallway wall for parent viewers to watch without intruding on the children’s practices.

Dimmable recessed can lights brighten the area, while a corner spotlight provides the option of illuminating the space with a disco ball. “With the number of mirrors, it actually turned out to be an impressive point,” Slowick says.

Closets on the left side of the room hide the sump pump pit and serve as additional storage for the home.

Although the dance room was a standalone project, the firm did go back later to do further work in the theater room, adjacent hallway, and closets. “Overall, we loved the space,” Slowick says. “The owners still comment on how much they appreciate the work.”