Subriah from Kōra Pilates

Tell us about Kōra. What is it?

Kōra is a boutique reformer Pilates studio with just 12 beds. It’s intentionally small and very community-focused. Pilates sits on a spectrum. Some studios are very HIIT-inspired and fast-paced, others are very classical. Kōra is somewhere in between, contemporary and a little slower, but your heart rate still rises.

We specialise in group reformer classes and also offer some one-on-one sessions.

Where did the name ‘Kōra’ come from?

In Pilates, everything comes back to your core, your powerhouse. We loved that connection. If you work on yourself and build strength from your centre, you show up better for your family and your community. That idea really aligned with what we wanted the studio to represent.

Is this your first bricks-and-mortar business?

Yes, and it was a huge learning curve. I’d worked in the wellness space before with MINDBODY and ClassPass, so I understood the industry, but I’d never done a fit-out. I didn’t fully grasp what was involved.

Having the support of the Nightingale team made such a difference. There was a real sense of trust. I could focus on building the business rather than getting lost in permits and processes.

What drew you to this location?

I live locally in Coburg and wanted something I could walk to. I remember seeing Nightingale Umarkoo Wayi going up and thinking I wanted to be as close to it as possible. The location is incredible, right on Sydney Road and close to public transport, but the building itself also felt thoughtful and beautiful.

How did you find the fit-out process?

It was such a positive experience. Working with Kennedy Nolan was something I never would have imagined before this. The space feels warm and grounded, with earthy tones and beautiful textures.

Every touchpoint, the architects, the builders, the Nightingale team, felt considered. That level of care made the process much less overwhelming.

How does it feel operating within a residential Nightingale building?

It feels cosy and connected. There’s something really grounding about being under a building where people live. You see familiar faces coming and going. Some residents come down to class, which is lovely. It creates a sense of belonging from the beginning. It never feels lonely.

What’s your favourite thing about the space?

The calm.

Sydney Road is vibrant and busy, with trams, people and constant movement. As soon as you step into Kōra, it feels like a retreat. The soundproofing, the warmth, the softness of the materials. It makes the workout feel less like a workout and more like time for yourself.

Who comes to Kōra?

It’s a real mix, mostly women aged 25 and up, but we’re seeing more men join as well. We run close to 39 classes a week with a team of instructors, so there’s a strong sense of community building already.

What’s been the most rewarding moment since opening?

Watching people build a ritual and seeing them get stronger. Some clients have never moved that way before, and within weeks you can see the change in their strength, their confidence and their consistency.

Even though we’ve only been open since mid-December, it already feels like something meaningful is forming.

What would you say to someone who’s never tried Pilates?

Pilates improves your quality of life. It’s low impact and easy on your joints, but it builds deep strength and stability. It supports your mobility and balance and helps you move better in everyday life.

It’s accessible at almost any stage of life or fitness, and it’s actually fun.

What’s next for Kōra?

We’re focused on growing the timetable and continuing to build community. We’re hosting workshops, including one with a nutritionist, and creating more opportunities for people to connect beyond class.

Long term, another location would be amazing. For now, it’s about settling in and enjoying the momentum.

(Photography by Nick Mangos and Kate Longley)