A fresh interior for haringtons soho

With 13 Haringtons salons in an area stretching from London to the South coast, Robert Smith and David Lambert were keen to maintain the group's signature look in their latest premises, based in the capital's trendy Soho district.

However, it was also important that the salon had a twist. "Every time we fit a salon, we try to evolve the design," says David. "This gives a freshness without breaking away from our strong corporate brand."

For the new Poland Street salon, this meant including aspects such as a relaxing KeraSpa area and a Jackson Pollock print at reception instead of the normal model headshot. 

To achieve their desired look, the team started by stripping out the premises completely. Although no major structural changes were made, separate areas were designated for shampooing and training, while 16 styling stations were fitted across the two-storey space.

Eight backwashes are split between the two floors, with those upstairs including reclining shiatsu massage chairs which David says are a big hit with clients. All seating is in mocha shades apart from a cream Barcelona sofa, which is located opposite the glass reception desk at the front of the salon.

Cream panelled walls give the salon an airy feel, and are complemented by silver and brown Italian ceramic floor tiles. Downlighters in the styling and colouring areas provide brightness for the stylists' detailed, close-up work.

The finished salon puts client comfort first, with an unfussy design that maintains the Haringtons' corporate look. Located in one of London's most buzzing districts, David and Robert are hoping this will appeal to the fashionable, designer-led people of Soho, and build on Haringtons' previous success.   

What state was the property in before you began refurbishment?

The property was used as a hairdressing salon before, but it was in need of updating. The refurbishment took us three weeks.

Who are your clients?

We want it to appeal to designer-led professionals and corporate staff. Poland Street is surrounded by high profile office headquarters and shops. 

What was the best thing you did in the salon?

Fitting top of the range air-conditioning in the main work areas was a good decision.

Any regrets? 

We should have tiled up the walls under the worktops rather than painting them. Even with footrests clients still mark the walls with their shoes! 

Name: Haringtons

Address: 28 Poland Street, London

Owners: Robert Smith and David Lambert

Size: 2,000sq ft

Staff: 15

Styling stations: 16

Financing: Self

Design: YY design consultants and Haringtons directors

Furniture: Pietranera from LSE Salon Furniture

Features: KeraSpa and training areas.

Designer: YY Design and Shopfitters - 020 8902 0719

Furniture: LSE Salon Furniture - 020 8903 0002