Quirky style at bohemia in ipswich
Published
28th Mar 2012
by rachael
Daniel Woollard and Kat Baker wanted to create an interior that was quirky, individual and eclectic.They found a property in Ipswich which met their criteria of location and size. The former recruitment office had stood empty for three years, but before it could be transformed it was returned to its bare walls and concrete floors.
"We wanted to create a kooky, unusual boutique salon, but we didn't want to compromise the practical working space for our team," explains Daniel. So, the pair began by ripping out the interior which included suspended ceilings, fully rewiring the 1,600sq ft space and introducing bespoke furniture.
Kat and Daniel spent hours sourcing ideas from London hotels and bars and visiting salons that they admired. "Many salons keep their décor minimal and try to appeal to as wider group as possible," Daniel says. "We wanted a salon that was full of personality and was a direct reflection of our tastes and preferences."
While the colours were kept as neutral as possible, wallpaper and injections of aubergine were used to bring interest to the décor. A combination of warmer colours and softer lighting helped to create a relaxing, cosy ambience in the backwash area.
One of the main features is a 6ft chandelier in the reception area which dominates the front of the salon. Another feature is a piano that has been transformed into a styling station, with an antique mirror and a simple black styling chair.
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Bohemia in brief...
What was the best buy?
Our dresser section as we refurbished it ourselves.
What was the most important part of the refit?
We wanted to maximise client comfort while retaining an open, spacious feel but retaining the salon's quirkiness.
What was the best and worst thing you did?
What was the best and worst thing you did?
Best: Creating a separate wash area. Worst: The black formica looks amazing, but needs a lot of cleaning.
Name: Bohemia
Address: 15 Queen Street, Ipswich
Owners: Daniel Woollard and Kat Baker
Size: 1,600sq ft
Staff: 14
Styling stations: 10
Budget: £75,000
Financing: Self
Design: Self
Furniture: Bespoke, antiques
Features: Piano styling station, chandelier, and feature wallpaper.
TOP TIPS
- Use tradespeople that you trust.
- Spend the most money on key items such as flooring and lighting.
- Research and plan your layout to keep the workspace as practical as possible.
