Chic and stylish - savvy salon

When demand dictated that Melanie Jefferson should move her thriving hairdressing business, Savvy, to a bigger site, she decided to invest in buying a property she could make her own. After successfully bidding at auction for a 200-year-old building in the pretty coastal town of Whitehaven, Cumbria, she began the process of transforming the run-down premises into a slick, stylish salon. Working with her husband, her brother and an architect, Melanie completed the conversion in four months to realise her aim of an open salon that made clients feel relaxed and welcome."We’ve had a great response to the salon from clients and the press, and are so excited that this vision has become a successful reality," says Melanie. "Client comfort with a luxurious appearance was our priority with this design and it’s all come together beautifully."Pictures >>

Fact File Name: Savvy Address: 74 Lowther Street, Whitehaven, Cumbria Owners: Melanie Jefferson Size: 1,080sq ft Staff: 12 ClienteleThose seeking a professional service in a relaxed environment Staff: Eight stylists, two juniors and a receptionist Styling stations: 11 Budget: £46,700 Finance: Commercial mortgage for purchase of premises and refit Features: Large windows, mirrored tiles, leather couches, branded styling positions. How to Achieve the Look REM equipment: Sally Salon Services - Carlisle: 01228 532107 Karndean flooring: Lee Coan Flooring - 07886 459 560 Reception desk: Barker and Stonehouse, Gateshead - 0191 460 5755 Hand-made mirror tiles: BB Glass, Workington, Cumbria - 01900 65445. Top Tips Have a clear vision of what you want Set an achievable but challenging timescale Location is key – but don’t rush into buying Make time to project manage the job yourself, or find someone you trust 100% Enjoy the experience. More Pictures>>