Colourful merseyside salon in the limelight
Published
26th Apr 2011
by rachael
Shimmers Hair Salon in St Helens, Merseyside, has occupied the same premises for more than 25 years, and owner Lynne Webster took over the business 14 years ago. The established salon is ideally located and has a loyal clientele, but it was in need of a fashion facelift.
So Lynne chose to close the busy salon for two weeks to transform the 450sq ft premises into a welcoming, on-trend environment. Working with REM, Lynne and the design team took inspiration from her favourite TIGI products, contrasting bright colours against a simple white background. "I love the whole TIGI brand and wanted to incorporate that into my new-look salon," Lynne explains. "My aim was to create a salon that was totally different to any other in the area - quirky, colourful and with a unique design."
One of the main features is the Backwash Heaven, which took Lynne two months to design. "Clients can discuss their product recommendations based on their consultation, and we talk about retail products while they are having their hair washed," she explains.
Lynne's meticulous planning ensured the whole refit went smoothly; even the flowers on the reception aren't left to chance, and are co-ordinated by Lynne. "Refitting my salon was the best decision I have ever made; I don't know why I waited so long."
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Fact File
Name: Shimmers Hair Salon
Address: 233 Boundary Road, St Helens, Merseyside
Owner: Lynne Webster
Staff: Three
Styling stations: Four
Budget: £40,000
Financing: Self
Design: Lynne Webster
Furniture: REM
Features: Backwash Heaven
Budget Box
Flooring: £5,000
Backwash Heaven: £3,500
Furniture: £16,000
Computer: £250
Lighting: £3,000
Plumbing: £2,000
Top Tips
- Ensure there has to be a good reason for the refit.
- Visit trade exhibitions like Salon International as there is so much inspiration under one roof.
- Employ a first-class builder.
- Know how you want your salon to look.
- Attach your new salon to a brand.
Shimmers Hair Salon in Brief...
How would you describe the salon's image?
Quirky, edgy and bang on-trend.
What was the most expensive part of the refit?
The builder, but he had an excellent reputation, with a track record of working on bespoke salon refits.
What was the best buy?
There were no bargains - I decided the refit would be all or nothing.
What was the best and worst thing you did?
Best: Making the change.
Worst: Not allowing myself enough time to research my ideas at Salon International.
