2 mins
ONE OF A KIND
A salon duo share how rejecting trends and embracing their own unique style has amounted to an inviting, eclectic space
Having met not long after beginning their careers in hairdressing, Darren and Jackie Ambrose always talked about owning their own space, discussing how they could merge their shared love of fashion and hair into one signature business. Enter: DJ Ambrose.
When they first purchased the property 27 years ago, the floors, walls and ceilings all had to be torn down. While Darren notes that this certainly increased their workload, it also gave them free reign to craft their dream space. He adds: “As time has gone on and we’ve added interesting pieces of furniture and art; it’s evolved so there’s a truly bespoke vibe.” Take note of the vintage travel cases transformed into a chest of drawers, and the antique service bell sitting on the reception desk.
The evolution that Darren talks about has been a constant in DJ Ambrose; while there is certainly cohesion within the space, it also acts as a canvas for the couple to update, refresh and accessorise. From picture frames to flower pots, brass golds take centre stage, adding a touch of glamour, while bespoke wallpaper created with some of the couples’ photographic collections introduces some pops of colour.
KEY FACTS
Name: DJ Ambrose
Address: 12 Bridge Street, Pinner, HA5 3JE
Owners: Darren & Jackie Ambrose
Size: 1,300sq ft
How long have you been in the premises: 27 years
How many staff: 15
Budget: Difficult to say as the salon design has been an ever-evolving project
A combination of lighting works to enhance relaxation while also ensuring the best possible results; subdued lighting surrounding the backwashes provides a sense of tranquillity while in the cutting and technical services areas, they have strived to replicate natural daylight. This, combined with overhead lighting, allows them to clearly see their work processing; “There’s nothing more important than being able to see the colour and details within all the hair tones,” Darren adds.
Practicality was also considered within other aspects of the design. For example, the walls are covered in an Amtico covering designed to look like Wenge wood – agreat choice for salons, because it can be easily wiped down. Meanwhile, Amtico slate in a deep chestnut was selected for the flooring, paired with a spring effect underlay, making it much softer for the staff who are on their feet all day.
With an eclectic, boutique aura as the salon's trademark, Darren summarises his thoughts on the ongoing design process: “Our vision for the salon was for it to reflect our tastes, we don’t stick to themes or styles, we like what we like and somehow that’s all it takes for it to come together.”
DARREN’S TOP TIPS
1 Find your own style But also be sure to make it user-friendly
2
Communicate
clearly
Ensure that the design and build teams understand each others’ needs
3
Consider
furniture
carefully
Beyond the aesthetics, you’ll want good-quality pieces to ensure longevity