Into the FOREST
As Blue Tit opens its 14th space, we take a peek behind the decadent Art Deco curtain…
"The Forest Hill salon reflects the essence of Blue Tit – a creative, inspiring space that celebrates individuality – but with its own distinctive character."
Blue Tit is one of London’s most recognisable salon collectives, with Forest Hill marking its 14th opening – and the first non-franchise location in some time.
Co-owned by Andi Hinteregger and Matthew Gebbie, the brand burst onto the scene with its debut salon back in 2011, and while every location has its own look, Blue Tit salons are united by one principle: “cosy, elegant and effortlessly cool.”
The Forest Hill space brings that vision to life. Designed by long-time collaborators StudioNLM and Opulence, it channels 1980s boldness with an Art Deco twist. “The Forest Hill salon reflects the essence of Blue Tit – a creative, inspiring space that celebrates individuality – but with its own distinctive character,” explains Andi. “Each room tells a different part of the story. It feels both energising and comforting – stylish but inclusive.”
Working with a bare-bones space, Andi says, made it easy to create “a new kind of salon” rooted in the area’s energy. “Forest Hill has been on our radar for a while; it’s a rising, vibrant part of South London with a real sense of community.” Once the layout was secured, the team set to work building a space that flowed – both visually and practically.
The colour palette plays a huge part in this. “The main salon area features a vibrant mustard yellow that feels fresh and energising,” shares Andi. “The backwash area is drenched in calming green tones, creating a sense of retreat, while the waiting area introduces cooler blue hues to set a relaxed tone. The palette reflects both the functional needs and the emotional response we want to evoke.”
Soft arches and curves run throughout, from doorway frames to custom mirrors, which work alongside clever lighting to create seamless transitions. “Lighting is key to the Blue Tit experience,” says Andi. “We’ve continued our living-room-meets-studio vibe – bright, directional lighting at the styling stations, paired with more intimate, subdued lighting at the backwash to encourage relaxation.”
KEY FACTS
Name: Blue Tit Forest Hill
Address: Blue Tit Forest Hill, 16 Dartmouth Road, London, SE23 3XU
Owners: Andi Hinteregger & Matthew Gebbie
When did the salon open: July 2025
How many staff members: Four Budget: Undisclosed
Materiality was just as considered. “Rather than traditional coverings, we played with tone and material. You’ll find beautifully tiled styling stations, which are a standout feature. It’s a modern approach that feels both tactile and elegant.” The same tiles run throughout the floors – a choice made for both aesthetic and practical reasons. “They offer durability, easy maintenance, and visually tie in with the overall 70s/80s aesthetic.” Meanwhile, the furniture was all tailor-made to suit, with prints and artwork curated to reflect each room’s palette.
A standout design detail is the lack of a traditional front desk – a deliberate choice due to the building’s compact entrance. “By removing this, we created a more personal entry point.” The new setup doubles as a bar and welcome station, complete with a wall of curated magazines – think vintage Dazed, Dogs in Vogue, and, naturally, Hairdressers Journal International.
For Andi, collaboration was at the heart of it all. “Our partnership with StudioNLM and Opulence gave us a refined, premium finish that elevates the whole experience.”
And with a new salon comes a new team. “It’s a dynamic team, full of experience, energy, and fresh perspective – exactly the vibe we wanted for Forest Hill.”
ANDI’S TOP TIPS
1 Work with an experienced designer.
Finalise your vision before you even begin.
2 Map out your sections and floor plan early. Understand how people and energy will move through the space.
3 Spend time in the building beforehand. Get a feel for the light, flow and atmosphere.