Just Opened

Studio 34

by Dana Henry

4522 Baltimore Ave., 215-387-3434, studio34yoga.com

Nestled into the gray area where University City becomes West Philadelphia, Studio 34 celebrates the best part of its locale: diversity. The newly renovated arts and wellness space, which includes a 1,700-square-foot yoga studio, has room for everything from big-name yogi appearances to life coaching to political rallies.

After spending more than a year researching the spot, founders and longtime West Philly residents Stephen Fisher, Angela Norris and James Peniston (pictured) are ready to develop what they hope will be a community haven. Fairly priced yoga and pilates classes, cheap conference rooms and a rent-free community area are part of their all-inclusive mission. Additionally, Studio 34 will be a venue for local artists and musicians. During the grand-opening celebrations, the Midwives Collective presented their multimedia exhibit Finding Blue, and music was provided by urban bluegrassers the Citywide Specials and jazz vocalist Jessi Teich.

After the opening festivities die down, Fisher hopes patrons will take it from there. "We've been approaching wellness providers and asking, 'How do you see this community?'" he says. "Ideally, we become a place where people find their own unique way of supporting each other."