There’s no two ways around it. Like any art form, skill, or hobby, dancing takes practice and dedication. While it’s true that many dancers take classes in a studio, there are plenty who prefer to practice at home. Building a dance studio at home has unique perks, such as having complete control over the environment.
You also don’t have to worry about making time in your busy schedule or becoming frustrated with the traffic going to and from dance class. Plus, when you’re dancing at home, you can practice your moves any time you want without distractions.
The good news is that getting set up is easier than you might think! Here are some home dance studio ideas.
Find the Perfect Space
Before buying all the furniture and equipment for your home dance studio, you need to find the perfect space. Doing so will give you an idea of how much space you have to work with, as well as the potential layout of your studio.
Your studio should be big enough for you to move around freely and comfortably, so it’s important to pick a spacious room. Mind you, it doesn’t have to be huge. Even a small room or corner can make for a great dance area depending on preference.
If you plan on dancing with a partner, you’ll need enough space for two people. Many people use their basements, guest room, or garage for their home dance studios.
Install Flooring, Mirrors, and Barre
Next, you’ll need to consider installing the necessary flooring for your dancing feet. While installing a proper dance floor is not always necessary, it is highly recommended if you’re serious about dancing. For instance, the cement in most garages or basements isn’t as forgiving on your feet and legs as a proper dance floor is.
Adequate flooring can consist of laminate, vinyl, or even hardwood. These smooth surfaces provide enough give for your feet and ankles when dancing. Once you’ve installed the floor, it’s time to hang up mirrors on one or two walls in the room.
Mirrors are essential for any dancer, especially when learning new moves or trying to perfect existing ones. There are several types and sizes of mirrors, but we recommend a glassless mirror for your home dance studio. As the name suggests, they don’t have any glass, so they won’t shatter if accidentally hit during practice.
Finally, you can complete the look of your home dance studio by installing a barre. Barres are thin, horizontal poles that dancers use for balance and support during practice. Although typically associated with ballet, barres are actually great for any form of dance. You can use them to stretch, practice pilates, or as an anchor for turns and spins.
Barres are available in metal (like aluminum) and wood.
Install a Sound System and Camera Gadgets
Naturally, someone grooving to the sound of music will need a sound system. This step is perhaps the most versatile, as you can choose the audio setup that best matches your preference. We’ve seen everything from wireless headphones to full surround sound speakers. The bottom line is to find something that fits your needs and budget.
Additionally, you can also install cameras and gadgets such as a projector or even a green screen. Cameras will allow you to record your progress and review it later, while the projector and green screen can add an extra dimension of fun if you like posting videos or streaming your practices.
Home Dance Studio Lighting
Part of the ambiance of a dance studio is the lighting, and you can create this at home with little effort. The right lighting can make all the difference when dancing; it not only helps you to see properly but also enhances the mood of your practice.
Some people may get lucky and have ample natural sun exposure in their studios. But what about practicing at night or when the weather is overcast? The solution is to install some artificial lighting.
We suggest installing multiple layers of light around the studio, including floor lamps and wall sconces. This will give you more control over the brightness and create a dimmer or brighter atmosphere, depending on your vibe. We also recommend using LED lights whenever possible since they are both energy-efficient and long-lasting.
Enhance Your Studio With Dance Accessories
Finally, adding some accessories can take your home dance studio to the next level. These can be anything from yoga mats and foam rollers to balance boards and dance poles. Cross-training equipment will help you build strength and flexibility, while dance poles are great for practicing spins and turns.
Other dance equipment you may want to consider are turn boards, leg warmers, and stretch bands. These items can be found online or at most stores specializing in dance supplies.
Create the Home Dance Studio of Your Dreams
Creating a home dance studio can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With the right setup, you’ll have everything you need to practice and perfect your dance moves in the comfort of your own home.
If you’re a complete beginner and don’t have any moves yet, don’t fret. Sign up for a free dance lesson in Nashville to get started.