THE PERFECT SALON EXPERIENCE

Fun, psychedelic and eclectic, Lulu Birkett, Co-Founder and Brand Director of WhiP Salons takes us through the interior décor inspiration behind WhiP Brighton

WhiP Brighton isn’t just a place to get a haircut, it’s a place to relax, chat and fully immerse yourself in their creative atmosphere. “Our environment at WhiP is thoroughly considered,” explains Lulu Birkett, Co-Founder and Brand Director. “From the personalities we employ, to the soundtracks we curate, we want people to feel as relaxed and as comfortable as possible while we create hair magic.”

With a feminine, rose tint on the walls and one-of-a-kind Takara Belmont Dainty's in an assortment of punchy colours, the salon interior is wonderfully eclectic. WhiP London, situated in Hackney, has a similar vibe, but the seaside salon interior has been tweaked for the Brighton clientele. “The demographic in Brighton does have similarities to London, but the culture and vibe definitely has its own identity,” she explains. “We're striving to be part of Brighton’s cultural community, playing a role as a venue for arts and music events, as well as servicing the young vibrant crowd – from the students, to the LGBTQ+ community and even local business owners too. We have recently hosted a few events including a taco rave, our opening party and a kink photography exhibition.”

For Co-Founders Lulu Birkett and James Fisher, there are key common themes and inspirations that the London and Brighton salons share. “We love David Lynch films, psychedelia, forest and fauna, not to mention all the trinkets we have picked up on our travels. Our salon lights were slogged all the way from Goa!” Lulu adds. James and Lulu are both fans of 1970s and 1980s hedonistic party and club culture, and the salon is peppered with a mix of modern, industrial raw and organic materials.

When HJ asked Lulu what made them choose Takara Belmont chairs, she responded that “they are a classic design, chic, long-lasting and a smart investment”. In fact, the only new furniture they have in their salons is Takara Belmont. “We love their aesthetic and timeless luxury appeal. We sourced other furniture from charity shops, always trying to upcycle and fix, which reflects the sustainable approach we have in our business,” she adds. “The salon was a Ladbrokes prior to us moving in, so you can imagine we had our work cut out for us! James moved in and slept in the shop, grafting, sanding the wooden floor and setting up new plumbing and electrics systems.” Well, the hard work has certainly paid off.

Even from the décor alone, you get the feeling that this is more than just a place to work, it’s a community. “We strive for a family feel in the company, while still attaining 5 star standards as industry leaders. We are always on the look-out for new talent to join us!” adds Lulu. WhiP London is truly open, in all senses of the word.

Recreate the Look

Versatile perfection

Customise the Dainty from a wide range of colours. With contrasting piping and base and fabric options, it adapts to any salon setting. Versatile and functional, 360º (lockable) base rotation and a reclining backrest ease your client into the most comfortable position. With an adjustable and removable headrest, upholstered armrests and footrest, Dainty is distinctive and robust. Price: £1,360-£1,770

Elevate every backwash

RS Prime features a removable gel-filled neck cushion to cradle your client's head, as the 16º tilt-mechanism ensures unhindered access for the stylist. With thermostatic control that regulates water pressure and temperature, and a free-swivelling intelligent shower-head with retracting cord, a premium shampoo service is assured every time. Price: £2,600

Now with 0%, zero deposit Finance Lease, visit www.takarahairdressing.co.uk