Studio Spotlight: Studio FiveSix


Studio.fivesix is a newly opened studio space in Sydney’s Surry Hills. An exquisite New York-style loft apartment and creative space created by former Olympian Olia Burtaev and fashion photographer Raex Murillo.Designed to be the perfect backdrop for photoshoots as well as health and wellness events, classes and activations, this inspiring haven is a place where art and movement flow.We speak to Olia Burtaev to find out more.

Congratulations on your new studio! Tell us about the vision you had when working on it?

Thank you so much!! I am very excited about my new studio, when I saw it, I instantly knew this was a space I could see myself in. It reminded me of my ballet studio from when I used to do ballet and absolutely loved the wooden floors, high ceilings and the light that comes through the big windows!

You have created such a gorgeous feminine safe space, tell us a bit about why you designed the studio this way.

Thank you!! I've always leaned more into my feminine side and have always expressed that through movement and my artistic sporting background! To be completely honest, the actual studio itself is a very open and stunning space. I can play around with adding equipment and changing the set up whether that be for shoots, training or filming. Along with my roommate, who is a fashion photographer (Raex Murillo) - we wanted this space to embrace the New York vibe it sets and make it artistic as well as unique and adaptable to our creative and athletic passions.

Love the NY studio inspiration?

I never planned on NY - however, maybe it was more of a right place - right time moment. Once I saw it, I fell in love with it! Coming across a style like this in Sydney is not common and that's what I love about it. It's unique, stands out, adaptable and as I mentioned before - reminds me of a ballet studio which I am obsessed with.

Why does art / design play such a massive part in this space? Take us through some of your favourite features?

Being a creative person myself, Raex and I have always drawn inspiration from art, books and music. Creating a space that embraces that and can inspire both of us athletically and creatively is very important. We personally want this space to be welcoming and inspiring for everyone.

Why does art / design play such a massive part in this space? Take us through some of your favourite features?

Being a creative person myself, Raex and I have always drawn inspiration from art, books and music. Creating a space that embraces that and can inspire both of us athletically and creatively is very important. We personally want this space to be welcoming and inspiring for everyone.

What kind of community and experience do you want to cultivate?

My personal goal is to attract a community that embraces and appreciates art and movement. By no means does that mean you have to be involved in it yourself, but people who are happy, excited to explore and put themselves out there in an environment that fully supports everyone and anyone who is passionate and willing to give anything a go.

What can people expect when walking into your studio?

I believe our environment has been created as a safe space for everyone to enjoy. Our space is dynamic and unique and I believe people can expect that as they walk into it! Hopefully mesmerised and inspired by that the space has to offer.

What is the offering?

Personally I will be running the health, wellness and fitness side of the studio. My training comes from my hybrid background of synchronized swimming, therefore, being such a hybrid sport I have always enjoyed focusing on mobility, flexibility and moving with grace. With that being said, depending on the class and client - I cater my training style around pilates, ballet and resistance training. I enjoy exploring movement and focusing my attention to detail and technique so that people feel the difference when moving and become more body aware. I enjoy making movement and training look easy, however, it never is - so I always push everyone to achieve their full athletic potential in their own way.

You have such great experience as a former gymnast, and synchronised swimmer - how will this experience come to life through your offering?

As mentioned above, I like to explore movement and constantly change exercises and keep the brain working. I have found that no matter how comfortable you get with an exercise or movement pattern - I will always find a way to challenge you more (when you're ready!) and inspire you to keep working hard. In saying that, no matter how difficult a session is or a technique - I will always say make it look easy which I guess comes from my athletic background!

Biggest business lesson you've had so far?

My biggest lesson as of yet would be that you just need to work hard and not get disheartened. There's a lot that comes when running your own business, studio, brand etc, and I genuinely have found that by being a kind, positive and hardworking person people will always be attracted to that. Not being scared to ask for advice and help and putting yourself out there and by reaching out to people is another factor which I believe is important. Showing initiative and interest and maintaining strong relationships and networks with everyone. Everyone has something to offer so I never underestimate anyone I meet and always want to help and lift people up.