Interiors focus: hair by clare ashton

Freelance Hairdresser, Clare Ashton took a shell of a former shop and transformed it into a thriving hair and beauty haven. We caught up with her to find out how she's made her independent business work. Having been hairdressing for 16 years, Clare Camp decided to take the plunge at 25 and create her hair and beauty salon. 'When I first took on the premises it had been numerous failed businesses, a pet shop, estate agent, music shop, car leasing business, all of which closed within 6 months of opening. The landlord was keen to let the shop quite quickly, so the rental figure was attractive as a new start up. After a small scale salon fit out with £6.5k budget, we opened within three months of taking on the lease. Some three years later with five staff we then took on the premises next door which was owned by the same landlord and undertook a large renovation spending £40,000. The business quickly grew from strength to strength and with personal savings, family investment and bank financing the business was able to acquire the premises, which was a huge step for us in safeguarding jobs and ensuring that we could continue to achieve our growth plan. Finally in March 2016 the latest renovations started, and as of August 2016 the work was completed, adding some 500 sq ft shop floor space.' What did you have in mind to create before work began - what were the aims? 'The aim of the project was to create a salon environment that was unlike any other we’d seen. My husband and I had been planning it for around 3 years, and were particularly keen on the use of silver birch trees to create a rustic, yet relaxing and calming environment.' What would be your top five tips on renovating/refurbishing a salon?

1. I think the research phase is the most important part. We used the likes of HJi, Houzz, Pinterest and Behance to get inspiration for the refit, which helps you visualise different styles, themes and how it could all look in situ.
2. Secondly, set a budget, shop around and source quality local tradesmen and suppliers with good reputations. Having professionals to deliver the project will ensure everything is done to comply with building regulations and completed to a high standard, which will save money in the long run.
3. Once you’ve set a budget, allocate another 25%. There will undoubtedly be contingencies you haven’t planned for – for example we uncovered a 100 year old well - so having those additional funds can alleviate some of the stress when issues arise.
4. Plan the completion date meticulously and ensure it is adhered to. As most salons take forward bookings often months in advance, having an exact date to work to will reduce down time and keep customers happy. The salon will inevitably have to close for the builders to complete key elements of the project at some stage, and as we all know closing a salon for any length of time with staff still to pay can be very expensive. Having a good, flexible team delivering the project will ensure lost revenues are minimised.
5. Plan the launch and market it well via all channels. Maximising the revenue from the “renovation effect” is key, so having that momentum post re-opening will help with financing the renovation.

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