INTERIORS
SALON Magic
Alchemy and I in Berkhamsted is an elegant salon that combines luxury with the very best in hairdressing
Alchemy and I is designed to offer a luxurious experience to everyone who steps through the doors. For younger clients, the space functions as a ‘destination’ salon – somewhere they can enjoy a cocktail with their friends. “Those who are a little older enjoy soaking up the glamorous atmosphere and the feeling of high-end luxury,” explains owner Haylee Benton.
With Farrow & Ball’s Paean Black as the foundation colour, accents of gold touches and herringbone Karndean floor tiles, the salon has a decadent feel to it. The Victorian building has plenty of charm and Haylee and her team were keen to work with the old design elements, while adding their own contemporary twist to the salon. A former office space, the salon is split over four storeys and there really is a surprise on every floor, including the Blow Dry Bar and Alchemist’s Snug and Hair Spa.
The results are impressive, but it wasn’t all plain sailing for the team. “When we began the building’s refurbishment we had terrible luck with the first builders we decided to work with,” explains Haylee. “They were unreliable and unable to finish the job to a high standard, so we had to restart our search and find a more dependable company.” All through the process Haylee worked closely with interior design company Mystery London and her salon director Sean Butt to bring the design to life and ensure it worked on a practical level for stylists and clients alike. Lighting is key to bringing the space to life at Alchemy and I.
“The Blow Dry Bar features custom-made hooded dryer lights which accentuate the main bar. Elsewhere in the room, we have overhead lights that combine with the light from our front windows to create a natural glow within the room.” Downstairs in the Alchemist’s Snug and Hair Spa, the team installed specialist lighting designed to recreate the feeling of natural light as well as enhance the development of colour. Further demonstrating that practicality and indulgence truly do go hand in hand at this salon.
HAYLEE’S TOP TIPS
GO PRO
The best decision we made was using a professional interior design company as the team helped us create an interior that was truly ‘us’.
RELY ON REVIEWS
Always pick a reliable and rated renovation company rather than finding the cheapest – it will cost you more in the long run if you opt for the cheapest option as work will need redoing.
USE PINTEREST
We explored and researched the latest interior trends on Pinterest. It really opened our eyes to the potential of our salon space.