Enea Outside In Design Studio’s first public project: the new Oyu holistic health centre in Zurich

This urban oasis exemplifies the Enea ‘Outside In’ philosophy that bringing the outside in and integrating nature into interior design can promote wellbeing.

At Oyu, a novel and pioneering clinic devoted to holistic medicine and healthy lifestyle, Enea Outside In has created an urban oasis in a four-story building nestled in the city centre with a design that embraces nature and creates a sense of serenity. Soft materials and tactile surfaces harmoniously blend with natural greenery and the dynamic light of the city, creating an inviting space that reflects the essence of Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, which are practiced here.

Enea has taken a holistic approach to the visitor experience, aligned both with the activities of Oyu and with the firm’s overarching belief that integrating nature into design enhances the experience of space and adds value, both indoors and outdoors. Upon entering, visitors are surrounded by the soothing embrace of wood, a natural element that transports them into a realm of healing and tranquillity. The garden courtyard and terrace, with purple climbing wisteria, a scented herb garden (which includes medicinal herbs used by the health centre) and Japanese maples, as well as a pergola and fountain, creates a buffer between Oyu and the city beyond and grounds the visitors in nature. The interiors connect to the garden and are designed to evoke a sense of calm, making Oyu a perfect sanctuary for embarking upon a wellbeing journey.

The sense of natural flow in the space continues from the garden terrace into the adjoining Ayurvedic restaurant, where the ceiling is hung with curving waves of woven bamboo overhead, diffusing soft ripples of light. The bamboo also echoes the bamboo baskets used for drying tea, a key element of Oyu, which serves house-blended healing teas. Earthy tones, warm lighting, the soft curves of the seating and hand-crafted shapes of the custom-made furniture in wood and clay create a harmonious atmosphere. Living trees are integrated into the restaurant, creating a natural break between tables and literally bringing the outside in. Large windows from the terrace draw in natural light and a gentle breeze.

Enea’s approach is attuned to Oyu’s holistic practice of conventional and complementary medicine. The timeless design of the treatment rooms blends modern functionality with minimalist but warm aesthetics that put clients at ease and enhance a sense of wellbeing. Dappled hues and delicate textures pervade the space – including specially designed fabrics that subtly suggest mountain landscapes. The yoga studio includes Enea’s bespoke lighting and design elements, such as sliding walls that illuminate the space with translucent surfaces made with rice paper sandwiched in glass to provide texture and reflect the light

Enea’s journey through Oyu begins and ends within a wooden-clad room, forming a symbolic circle of completeness, reflected in Enea’s original full moon-like installation in the upper relaxation space. This room serves as a sanctuary where guests can enjoy specially brewed teas and the meditative ambience engendered through the thoughtful design.

Enea Outside In’s design for Oyu harmoniously blends the outdoors and indoors, embracing visitors and transforming this urban townhouse into a conduit between the bustling city and the healing essence of nature. The sustainable materials, natural hues, and hand-crafted furnishings of the interior respond to the colours and textures of the natural world. This design reflects Enea’s holistic approach to design, taking inspiration from landscape and refining living spaces by integrating nature into them at every level.

Enea Outside In Studio und Design Store Gessnerhof, Usteristrasse 14, 8001 Zürich | www.enea.ch/outsidein
Opening times: Tuesday to Friday from 10 to 19 hrs, Saturday from 10 to 17 hrs