For anyone wondering what is going into the former Edmonds Hardware and Paint space on the upper level of Old Milltown, it soon will be home to barre3, a boutique fitness studio.

Owner Gina Drake said the studio is committed to redefining the relationship people have with health and fitness. The studio website describes the workout as “functional training with a twist. Rooted in three fitness disciplines—ballet barre, pilates and yoga—barre3 workouts will have you feeling strong and balanced inside and out. We’re known for building lean muscles, a strong core, and long-term postural benefits.”

Drake, a Richmond Beach resident, said she first discovered barre3 after leaving a successful marketing career and becoming a new mother. “There was a lot of change and uncertainty in my life at that time,” she said. “I had been an athlete most of my life but wanted to find a more healthy and realistic approach to fitness that would challenge me in new ways while also supporting me as a new mom. What I found was not only a challenging workout, but a community.”

Drake became an instructor, with a dream of eventually bringing barre3 to Edmonds. Since finalizing the Old Millown location last summer, she has taught more than 50 free classes throughout the community, including special pop-up events at 190 Sunset, Brigid’s Bottleshop, HunniCo, Scratch Distillery and Gravity Bar.

Edmonds-based Wilcox Construction is building out the former Edmonds Hardware and Paint location to become a nearly 2,500-square-foot fitness studio, which will include child care, retail, changing rooms, lockers, showers and a community lounge space.

The studio is planning to open in early 2020. Meanwhile, Drake will continue to offer free classes each week. Learn more and sign up on the website. You can also find barre3 Edmonds on Facebook and Instagram.