Finlay's
BRIEF
Finlay’s is a hair salon in a small, narrow building with a long, tunnel like footprint and single window at one end. which left the space feeling dark and cramped. Natural light fades quickly along the lenght of the space, and the existing layout made poor use of the floor area.
The client asked for a complete redesign that would increase the percieved size of the salon and give it a modern, considered identity. The new interior needed to feel calm and restorative, closer to a spa than a traditional salon, so that clients could relax as well as be styled. It also had to work hard day to day: durable, low maintenance finishes that are quick to clean and reesilient against water, product and hair colour, with a layout that supports stylists’ workflow as well as atmosphere.
PROJECT INTRODUCTION
This project reimagines the salon as a calmer, more generous place to spend time. Rather than fighting the proportions of the building, the design works with them, using light, reflection and a restrainted palette to draw the eye through the space. The design organises the salon into a sequence of zones, taking the client on a journey from arrival to the furthest chair. Thresholdsbetween zones frame each transition and open up views ahead rather than one long corridor. Rather than fighting the lack of natural light, the lighting scheme leans into it: layered, warm lighting creates a cosy, enveloping atmosphere, while brighter, well-paced task lighting at the stations gives stylists the clarity they need to work.
SECTION RUNNING THROUGH ZONES
NOT TO SCALE
