'chic and on-trend' - saint salons

When Matthew Cole and Richard Lane decided to open their first hairdressing salon, their aim was to create the most client-friendly environment possible."We wanted a relaxed atmosphere and a friendly vibe," says Richard. "We wanted a salon that was stylish yet simple and one that everybody would love being in."The site itself is based in a modern apartment block in an area of Birmingham that has undergone major redevelopment. As it was a new building they had a blank canvas to work with and set about designing a stylish salon, inspired by their own apartment. “Everyone always comments on how warm and friendly our apartment is and how at home they feel,” Richard adds. Using a combination of neutral creams, a striking red feature wall, a dark wood reception desk and mirrors and dark leather sofa and chairs, the pair created a chic and on-trend salon, that has a home-from-home feel that stops it being intimidating. But do they have any regrets? "I wouldn't opt for white basin chairs again - stains are a nightmare!" Richard explains. Pictures>>

Fact File Name: Saint Salons Address: Southside, Inge Street, Birmingham Owners: Richard Lane and Matthew Cole Size:1,345 sq ft Staff: Currently four, but plan for seven Styling stations: Seven Budget:£50,000 Financing:Self Budget Box Flooring:£950 Building work:£28,000 Electrics: £8,000 Plumbing: £170 Styling stations: £2,000 Furniture: £10,000 Miscellaneous:£880. How To Achieve The Look Tables and mirror: Old Mother Hubbard - 01453 835679 Chairs and backwashes: Salon Ambience - 01908 631616 Colour bar: IKEA.com
	Top Tips Know your budget and stick to it How will it work for your team as a workspace? Find a good reliable builder that you can trust Know your competition – research the local area and make sure you offer something different Do as much work yourself as possible – to keep costs down Use the internet to search for deals. More pictures>>