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The Rotunda REBORN

A year-long refurbishment, an historic Art Deco building and a clear vision for luxury: Teresa Weller reveals how The Rotunda was transformed into a high-end salon

“I’m a people person at heart, and I pour 110% into every client. That’s the ethos behind my brand and the driving force behind every step of my journey.”

FACT FILE

Name: Teresa Weller Hair Art

Address: Rotunda, 15-19 South St, Dorking RH4 2LE

Owner: Teresa Weller

Size: 823 sq metres

When did the salon open: November 2025

How many staff: 9

Budget: £55k

Teresa Weller has been hairdressing since the age of 16 and, more than 30 years later, her passion for the industry is stronger than ever. After training with the late Queen’s hairdresser Ian Carmichael, she opened her own boutique salon on Dorking High Street in Surrey. Over the years, she has become renowned for creating beautiful, ready-to-wear hair, with expertise spanning colour, cutting, extensions and bridal styling. Her career has also taken her behind the scenes at London, Milan and New York Fashion Weeks, as well as editorial shoots, film sets and working with an incredible mix of celebrity clients.

As her reputation and team continued to grow, Teresa knew her salon space needed to reflect the calibre of work being delivered. Following an intensive year-long refurbishment, she relocated to a brand-new location at The Rotunda in November 2025. The move was never simply about expanding; it was about elevating the entire client journey. Teresa envisioned a luxury destination that felt welcoming, personal and creatively inspiring. “I’m a people person at heart, and I pour 110% into every client,” she explains. “That’s always been the ethos behind my brand and the driving force behind every step of my journey.”

Teresa had admired The Rotunda for nearly five years so when construction work began behind her former salon, concerns about disruption prompted her to reconsider her options. Discovering that The Rotunda was available for lease proved to be the turning point. An iconic 1928 Art Deco building with exceptional visibility right in the heart of Dorking, felt like the perfect next chapter.

The building’s Art Deco heritage heavily influenced the final design. Polished pebble walls, rose-gold accents, parquet oak flooring and soft neutral tones create an elegant yet modern aesthetic. Lighting plays a central role, with over 100 LED spotlights designed to mimic natural daylight, ambient backlighting and three statement chandeliers. The salon also features three backwashes, a dedicated toning area with adjustable lighting and two bespoke murals inspired by Teresa’s 2024 British Hairdressing Awards, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional, finalist collection for Southern Hairdresser of the Year.

The result is a space that perfectly reflects Teresa’s vision, blending creativity, comfort and connection. More than a new salon, The Rotunda marks a milestone in her career, celebrating years of passion, craftsmanship and a continued commitment to making every client feel valued.

TERESA’S TOP TIPS

1 It’s like having a baby 

You won’t know what it’s really like until you’re in it, but the outcome is worth it. 

2 Factor in delays

 I expected three months; it took a year. Always have a contingency plan! 

3 Research your  builder thoroughly

They are pivotal to the project’s success. Get recommendations.

This article appears in February 2026

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This article appears in...
February 2026
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