SELFIE STYLE

From the latest interior trends to dedicated content spaces, here’s how to create an Insta-worthy interior…

LIMOZ LOGLI, PHOTOGRAPHY: © LEO DAVUT

The interior of your salon could be one of the most important aspects of your business - perhaps the most expensive too. But think about it, while it may take up a large part of your budget, it's also where you’re going to want to invest your time and money because it's something that will give 100% back. We live in an age where digital is thriving and social media is at the forefront of your clients’ fingertips, therefore aesthetics play a huge role in client footfall and experience. We went to the experts to discuss the latest interior trends (including everything clients are obsessed with – hello plants and oversized mirrors!), design hacks for all budgets, and how to make a space for selfies (make the most of that free advertising!).

BROOKS & BROOKS

Stand Out from The Crowd

As soon as you walk in the door, you need the wow factor. In fact, Noel Halligan, NOCO Hair Bristol, estimates you have around four seconds to make a first impression, so you have to get it right. Likewise, Joe Emir, Inanch London, tells us that your interior should tell your brand’s story the moment a client walks in. “Our top tip? Prioritise luxury through small details – think velvet textures, mood lighting, and gold accents. Statement mirrors and a sleek, organised layout make a big impact.” But it’s also the atmosphere you create that is the key to creating a standout salon. “Colours, textures, lighting, music and equipment, all influence the emotions and wellbeing of clients and define their experience, so make sure these harmonise to create the perfect setting,” advises Katie Fielder, National Sales Manager, Takara Belmont.

@KAIA.THESALON

Additionally, Noel tells us: “Whatever your budget, you can make a big difference with textures and plants. You don’t have to go crazy, a splash of paint or a new plant can really change the look and give a fresh feel.” Joe recommends decluttering your space. “Even swapping out tired furniture for a few chic, high-street finds or introducing luxe-feeling textiles can instantly elevate your salon’s look,” he says. A great place to start is by working out your budget. “Spend as much as you can on the things you don’t want to replace quickly, such as backwashes and styling chairs,” Sally Brooks, Brooks & Brooks, advises. “There are some things that you will want to change or add to as you go, but don’t make mistakes with the expensive things. Think about practicality, does it run effectively at full capacity? Does it clean easily? You don’t want to be spending more after your refit.” But it’s Sally’s golden rule that you also need to consider: “Chairs are what earn money so work out the number of chairs you need first to make your business work and then design your salon around this,” she says. Plus, when it comes to choosing your chairs and furniture for your space, you’re going to want them to match your salon’s vibe. “Salons Direct have a range of customisable styling chairs to matching backwash units to make your salon interior stand out,” says Danielle Jones, Managing Director at Salons Direct.

INANCH LONDON

"Create a spot with beautiful lighting and a clean, visually appealing backdrop."

On Trend

Speaking of adding and changing as you go, let’s talk trends. “Curves and organic shapes are definitely having their moment, adding softness and visual interest,” Lisa Feleppa at Comfortel tells us. “Earthy and muted colours paired with textured elements like wood and stone remain popular. You can incorporate these with rounded mirrors, soft-edged textured upholstery in chairs, backwash units and stools, as well as natural finish accessories.” Billy Ryan, Tribe Salons, Clapham Common, introduces modern feels through smaller touches like artwork, lighting or accent pieces. “This keeps the salon looking fresh and interesting without needing to refurnish when trends move on,” he says.

NOCO HAIR

When it comes to accessories, plants can add that calm and natural environment clients love. “We use a lot of plants,” Noel tells us. “Plants give it a healthy environment which means happy, healthy hair.” Meanwhile, standout statement pieces grab the eye. “Our clients love the oversized backlit mirrors,” Joe says. “The plush grey sofa in our waiting room is another favourite, and our gold chandelier above our reception desk always gets compliments!” But remember your clients notice everything. “Our clients love all the details,” Sally shares. “The mirror design, the colour palette, plants, towels, cups and saucers.”

First, Let Me Take a Selfie

Something that clients also love, is a transformation picture. Whether it be a selfie your client is posting on their personal social channels, or a transformation journey you’re adding to your social media to build up your digital portfolio – you’re going to want your salon to be Insta-worthy. The key? The lighting! Everyone knows that the key to a good selfie is the lighting, so it comes as no surprise that the lighting in your salon should be well thought out. “Create a spot with beautiful lighting and a clean, visually appealing backdrop,” Joe tells us. Meanwhile, Billy believes clients should be able to take a good selfie anywhere in the salon. “Every corner should feel considered,” he says. “Lighting plays a big role so avoid harsh or direct lights where possible. The glare from wall lighting can ruin a photo – soft, even lighting and a well-styled background are key.”

TRIBE CLAPHAM

Encouraging your clients to take selfies in your space also means free advertising for your business and potential new clients from their following. “To encourage clients to share their experience, extra touches like branded mirrors with uplifting messages encourage client sharing and social engagement,” Lisa tells us. Which is exactly what owner of Charlotte Paints Hair Studio, Charlotte O’Flanagan, does: “I have a wiggle mirror at the front of my salon that I encourage my clients to have pictures in. It features my salon name so that people recognise my salon!” Something that is 100% going to give back!