SJ&Co is relaxed yet effortlessly stylish – a distinct brand identity that flows into the interior design of their Northcote based hair and beauty salon. A boutique salon just twenty minutes north of the Melbourne CBD, this beautiful renovation is a physical manifestation of creative director, Sara Jade’s vision: “a space that reflects me, my team and the area.”
Collaboratively crafted with The Stylesmiths™, this salon design is both parts charming and functional. Clients are greeted by a glass shopfront that allows natural light to stream into a welcoming, bright interior with a spacious layout. Rows of leather upholstered swivel armchairs sit below long curved mirrors at either side of the room.
Polished terrazzo worktops were custom made to include pops of pink, accentuated by illumination from suspended spherical pendants. A central inspiration and favourite surface texture for Sara Jade, terrazzo’s use continues along the floors in neutral grey and speckled black. Materials were chosen for their commercial durability to assist with ease of daily maintenance, but also for their connection to the architectural design history of the surrounding suburb. A choice that therefore reflects the all-important local clientele.
Organic curves keep the fittings consistent, adding a feminine touch to the soft lines with sharp edges. Designed with businesswomen in mind, Sara Jade understands what it’s like to be on the go and wanted her salon to empower her customers. Open for a 7am start to fit in with busy schedules, SJ invites clients to start their workday even while their hair foils are still setting. Thus, practical placement of power-points, USB ports and pockets for personal belongings were a must. The waiting area is an extension of this thought, catering to the needs of those waiting by providing a place to comfortably work and wait.
Natural timber bench seating brings warmth to the cosy nook that looks out to the front of the salon, complimenting the painted brick walls in calming white, and black ceiling that further hugs the space promoting a sense of intimacy. Following upwards are timber beam slates that create a feature divide between wet and dry areas. Ledges in between provide an extra opportunity for styling, SJ opting for plants in varying pink hues contributing to the brand’s unique character. Including a softer medium also helps to even out the acoustics of the space, a crucial consideration given the combined volume that hair dryers, music and general salon chatter can generate. Warm and fuzzy sounds add to the overall boutique beauty experience, the ultimate tribute to a sophisticated retail design.
