I think it's tempting when writing reviews of places like this to review the activity rather than the facilities and their suitability for that activity. That's not quite fair, though. Make no mistake, Bikram Yoga is not for everyone. It's hot. It's sweaty. And frankly, it's kind of gross. (Among other things, it has to be done in a carpeted room. (Carpeting with all that sweat??? Yeah. Kind of gross.) You can't really hold that against a Bikram studio, though. It'd be like rating a brewery based on its crappy wine list.
So, here's the bottom line: if Bikram is your thing, or you haven't ruled it out yet and want to give it a go, then this is a great studio.
The Good: wonderful owners, who care a lot about their students; many great teachers, who look after new students and offer corrections and encouragement, and continue to inspire those of us who've been coming for years; newly remodeled changing rooms, which are clean and have more than 2-3 showers (not to be taken for granted in Bikram studios, trust me); reasonably reliable heating/air system.
The Bad: students here are unusually chatty/noisy before and after class (compared to other places I practice), and the cleaning staff are usually keen to get their stuff done ASAP, which means shavasana is often cut short; there are a few teachers who are not attentive to students, especially newbies, and don't make easy/obvious corrections (sadly, this is something you'll encounter no matter where you practice); and the weird pay-locker system (I don't understand why they can't offer small lockers to all students for free). Also -- and I really hate saying this, because I do think so highly of this studio -- but it is a bit "sceney". E.g. this is the only place I've practiced Bikram where I've seen someone put silicone breast enhancers down her sports bra before class. No joke.
Finally, for what it's worth, I'd recommend to anyone reading this and deciding whether to give Bikram a try to go at least three times before deciding whether it's for you -- try not to judge right away. If I hadn't gotten that advice when I went the first time, I probably would have never gone back. The first time or two are the hardest because you don't know what the hell is going on and all you can think about is the heat. Be kind to yourself. Be patient with yourself. And do your very best to listen and follow the teacher's instructions. read more