Grow with the FLOW

STIL Salon Notting Hill now has a cool big sister, in the shape of a new flagship location in Chelsea. It’s STIL the same brand, but better…

STIL Salon Chelsea is the second premises founded by Alex and Christel Barron-Hough. They opened their doors this May after recognising they needed more space to continue to grow organically, following the success of their Notting Hill outpost.

KEY FACTS

Name: STIL Salon -Chelsea
Address: 99-103 Fulham Road, Chelsea, London, SW3 6RH
Owner/s: Alex & Christel Barron-Hough
Size: 1,800 square feet
How long have you been open: Seven months
How many staff: 13

“As a colour specialist salon, we were initially attracted to the space because three sides are glassfronted, which floods the space with natural light and is perfect for reading colour,” Alex explains.

Ensuring the space worked practically, whilst still looking attractive, was crucial to the couple.

The clean white walls make it easy to see colour application, whilst engineered laminate flooring provides longevity and delivers a look they knew they wouldn’t be able to achieve with oak.

The couple describe the design as Scandi-inspired with a contemporary, luxury feel (“think clean white walls, black Crittall frames and lots of marble,” says Christel.)

Lighting was selected with dual purpose in mind; they worked with a lighting designer to ensure it appeared soft and natural throughout the space, however , they also included feature elements, such as pendants above the colour bar – which is the heart of the salon.

Steering away from a stereotypical salon reception, the central colour bar takes inspiration from high-end bars and restaurants, to create a space that is both practical and impressive.

“This salon retains an element of the original STIL DNA – it definitely has thE Same Scandinavian ethos and aesthetics.”

Alex notes that “the exquisite view of the Regency-style crescent” is perhaps one of the most interesting features of the salon.

The design of STIL Salon Chelsea was conceived by Danish architect Max Broby, however the couple were keen to offer their input throughout, as this ensured the salon retained an element of the original STIL Salon’s DNA. Chairs were selected from Pahi Barcelona to fill the 15 styling stations, with the rest of the furniture selected from Scandinavian designers and manufacturers.

Reflecting on the process, Alex says: “It’s been seven years since we first opened the doors in Notting Hill; the new salon in Chelsea has a more polished and grown up feel to it.” The bright, light tones throughout create an invigorating space which Alex and Christel hope appeals to all, and with 15 styling stations and six backwashes, there is plenty of space to welcome everyone.

ALEX AND CHRISTEL‘S TOP TIPS

1 Don’t settle for second best at any point It’s always better to invest in something high quality once, than something mediocre three or four times.

2 Research your design ideas Make sure they work practically in addition to looking exactly how you want. 3Know

3 Know the area inside out before you invest You might want to ensure your brand will be well received in the area, and has good travel links for clients.