Novo hair: interiors inspiration

Kevin Franks was very familiar with the eventual premises of his salon Novo Hair in Southend-on-Sea, Essex. Before he transformed it, the site was a restaurant that he saw every day. Recalls Kevin: "I always travelled past the restaurant on my way to work and thought it was a beautiful building. I also ate at the restaurant six months before it closed and at the time thought it would make a fabulous salon." Kevin had to be patient, however, with the building originally going on to the market at a price way beyond his budget. "The price gradually came down and eventually I was able to negotiate it down to a level I could afford – well, nearly afford." Even once the property was his, there were quite a few preliminary alterations needed, including creating separate entrances to the salon and the two-bedroom apartment that formed part of the building. He also had to apply for planning permission to change the type of business housed in the building. Boutique hotels, such as those in the Hotel du Vin group, were a big inspiration behind the look and feel of the salon design. Says Kevin: "Also, the building itself served as an inspiration – I felt it was our responsibility to return the building to its original décor. I wanted to create a salon that 'put its arms around the client'. The coffee bar/reception area makes the client feel at home. The overall feel is opulent but relaxed." [hji-gallery-legacy] The Victorian era is evoked through grey panelling and solid oak flooring. Lighting is a mix of vintage-look wall lights together with LED daylight. "I wanted to avoid a suspended ceiling, lighting and chandeliers. The lighting we have is actually fantastic for showing off colour – better than spotlights." Zoning plays an integral part in the client journey. "I love to create different areas,” says Kevin. “The reception should be an inspiring but relaxed area, the main salon should be buzzy and creative, while the shampoo area should feel spa-like and professional."t Much of the salon furniture and equipment was sourced from LSE, including five Pietranera styling stations, and two Pietranera Shiatsu massage chairs. “Although expensive, they are a thoroughly worthwhile investment,” says Kevin. Kevin’s sizeable investment in the project has paid off, with Novo Hair already a destination salon, attracting discerning clients with a taste for boutique elegance and warm service. In Brief Name: Novo Hair Address: 52-54 Alexandra Street, Southend-on-Sea, Essex Owner: Kevin Franks Size: 2,500sq ft Budget: £120,000