Challenge: Nicole Drakulich, founder and owner of Oraya Movement, Inc. has always had a passion for breaking boundaries in traditional territories; finding a way to stand out. With a background in graphic design and a love for fitness, health and wellness, Nicole was looking to combine her passions to propel the global movement of wellness. Entering a space where no one has gone before – from both the technology and wellness side – Nicole was in search of a partner that was equally open to applying its background to develop a new experience that would benefit everyone.

Solution: Nicole turned to Panasonic, along with Vision Scenery, Background Images and Make A Thing animation team, to help provide and implement the technology needed to develop an entirely immersive Pilates, yoga and wellness experience. Together, they created two studios within one that allows guests to focus on projected imagery displayed on a curved wall, immersing guests into new scenic environments with every class. Ten Panasonic PT-RZ660 1-Chip DLP SOLID SHINE laser projectors paired with ET-DLE030 ultra-short throw lenses create the calming environment.

Result: Utilizing Panasonic’s projectors and lenses, Oraya Movement is committed to creating a community that’s centered on movement; raising mind, body and soul awareness. Thanks to superior support, innovation and collaboration with Panasonic’s solutions, Oraya is now able to offer immersive wellness experiences to its guests, with the intent of driving longstanding benefits on their mental and physical health.

Combining Technology and Wellness

Founded by Nicole Drakulich, Oraya Movement is the first of its kind to offer an immersive experience in the wellness and fitness realm. With more than 3,000 square feet of space, the studio holds nine guests comfortably on Pilates reformers in one half of the studio, and between 15-20 guests for yoga classes in  the other half.  The oval-shaped studio, located in West Hollywood, California, prides itself on creating a sense of community for those who are focusing on their overall wellbeing.

Vision Scenery, a set and scenery production company, created a new relationship between Oraya Movement and Background Images, an industry leader in production development. Having recommended the project initially, Background Images was tasked with determining the most optimal equipment to execute the vison for the yoga studio. 

“When we were first introduced to Nicole and she explained her vision for Oraya, she felt very strongly that Panasonic had the best technology to bring her vision to life – she was right,” said Alan Barber, Vice President of Background Images. “Together, and based off of Nicole’s original concept, we determined Panasonic’s PT-RZ660 laser projectors combined with the DLE030 ultra-short throw lens had no peers. We didn’t need to look at any other options – it was a very easy choice.” Panasonic’s PT-RZ660 1-Chip DLP laser projectors combined with the ET-DLE030 ultra-short throw lens were the clear drivers in executing an immersive wellness experience and setting at Oraya.

Using Imagery to Heal

The compact projectors were easily installed above the 8-foot curved walls and paired with the short-throw lenses to enable large screen projections from a short distance. Using imagery to create a transformative and healing experience throughout the space, the studio utilized the PT-RZ660’s geometry manager pro software and multi-screen support system to seamlessly map, edge-blend and color match the unique destination imagery onto the cylindrical walls of the oval-shaped studio.  The projectors’ high brightness and excellent image quality also played an instrumental role in creating this one-of-a-kind wellness studio. The system’s ability to portray images that are expressed with natural, convincing realism allows guests to visualize themselves practicing yoga in Lake Tahoe or an international park in Croatia – two of the five settings guests can experience at Oraya.

Finding the right balance of lighting and projection was critical in properly executing Drakulich’s vision. “It was really important for us not to make the studio and imagery too overwhelming for our guests,” said Drakulich. “It was clear from the beginning that partnering with Panasonic on this venture was the obvious choice. Together, we were able to find the right balance of technology and ambiance where Oraya could accurately and effectively use imagery for healing.” She explained that after two years of projector research, Panasonic was the clear choice; “If we wanted this done right, we had to go with the best.”

Creating a one-of-a-kind studio with Panasonic

From the initial concept to its grand opening, spanning a near three year period, there were little changes made throughout the studio development process. Ian Marsh of Vision Scenery was part of the team responsible for designing and building the in-studio set. “Nicole had a very clear depiction of the overall concept of the studio, and how she intended for Panasonic’s projectors to be utilized in order to execute it,” said Marsh. “Because of this, the overall functionality remained the same throughout, and we were able to create a unique design – it really is immersive when you’re in there.”

“It’s hard for me to believe that without Panasonic, Oraya’s launch would not have been so successful,” said Drakulich. “This concept is truly new for everyone, and being able to effectively execute this was a dream come true.”

By partnering with Panasonic, Oraya Movement is now successfully creating a one-of-a-kind setting in a Pilates, yoga and wellness studio.

For more information about Panasonic Imaging & Visual System, please visit: https://na.panasonic.com/us/audio-video-solutions.