Zesty colour at alexander hair and beauty in hull

Published 07th Sep 2011 by rachael
Zesty colour at alexander hair and beauty in hull


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Alexander Turnbull opened his first salon on the outskirts of Hull 10 years ago. However, after several winter floods and, on a more positive note, winning HJ's 2010 North Eastern Hairdresser of the Year, he decided it was the perfect time to give the salon a new look.


Within two weeks the salon went from worn out to a warm, welcoming space that reflected Alexander's personality and that of his team.


Alexander hired Red Frog Design to create his salon interior. He had input from both his team and clients and combined this with his own vision and the expertise of the designer. As an extrovert character himself, he knew he wanted a look that reflected his personality, was eye-catching to passers-by, but also practical for his team and attractive to clients. He chose white walls, which were in contrast to the opulent fabric wallpaper and the bright accent colours on the 
styling chairs.


Alexander states: "There are a lot of aspects to consider when putting together a new salon and mistakes do happen along the way, such as having to replace the styling chairs. Bright-coloured leather might look good but it isn't practical and I was forced to re-upholster after several spillages. However, I learnt from my mistakes and I am now happy with the finished look." 


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In brief...


What was the most expensive part of the refit?
The furniture and lighting.


How would you describe the salon's image?
Modern, fun and commercially sustainable.


In hindsight, is there anything you wouldn't choose again?
I originally chose orange seats but they stained so we replaced them with black cushions. It was an expensive mistake.


What were the best and worst parts?
Best: Refitting the business.
Worst: We installed four nail bars but I don't understand the business and it wasn't working, so we replaced it with a champagne bar.


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Fact file


Name: Alexander Hair and Beauty
Address: 8-11 Red Lion Court, Anlaby, Hull
Owner: Alexander Turnbull
Clientele: Mixed
Staff: 20
Styling stations: 15
Budget: £300,000
Financing: Self
Features: Contemporary mix of warm vivid colours and dark Amtico wood flooring with feature wall coverings and colour-controlled lighting


Top tips


  • Hire a design consultant
  • Allocate a sensible budget
  • Choose a design you are personally happy with as you have to live and work in the new area
  • Get your staff involved
  • Put yourself in your clients' shoes and try to see things from their perspective


rachael

rachael

Published 07th Sep 2011

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