Boris the cuttery makes brash beautiful
Published
15th Oct 2014
by rachael
Boris the Cuttery in Adelaide, South Australia, is loud, brash and eclectic – just like the fictional character the team use as their virtual creative muse. So when transforming the salon, they thought of places he would shop, clothes he would wear and created a space where he would feel at home.
It took months of collaboration with designers and builders to create the concept. "We wanted to maximise the space to make it feel bigger and work better for clients and stylists,"explains Damien Rinaldo, who owns the salon with Anne-Marie Garreffa. "We wanted a space that takes you to a different world to what is outside; a space clients will feel glamorous and entertained, and a space for our stylists to feel inspired and energetic."
Inspiration was taken from eclectic houses and apartments from around the world to create a space for 'Boris', ranging from mid-century furniture, homes in Palm Springs and the glamour of 1970s parties. It was this unusual thinking behind the design that won them 2014 Hair Expo Best New Salon in Sydney earlier this year.
"The salon is also inspired to a certain extent by a reflection of our personalities," adds Damien. "Anne-Marie is refined and polished, whereas I am out there and energetic."
The new brand reflects this, with its offbeat personality. It's eclectic and playful, yet beautiful: from the 800 hand-painted tiles covering the walls, to the carefully curated works of art adorning the walls. One of the fun features is the mirror system, which includes a solid walnut timber-dividing wall of mirrors within beautifully crafted joinery work. The twist is that every second mirror is actually not a mirror at all but simply a hole in the wall, complete with matching framework.
"I love clients’ reactions when they see a hand reach through the space to pass tools to a fellow stylist," laughs Damien. "A small shock followed by laughter creates an atmosphere for us and the client. It’s actually a design feature that helps to build rapport."
