Contemporary meets classic at chop barbers

John McMahon recognised a gap in the market that he thought he could fill back in the late 1990s. "While working in hairdressing salons across London and the south of England I saw there was definitely a demand for a modern barber's salon that could accommodate all fashion cuts and high quality traditional cuts for men," says John.

Following an extra stint of training in traditional barber skills, John opened his first Chop salon in Cheddar, Somerset. This was joined four years later by a women's salon in the same area with additional men's salons opening in Wells and then, earlier this year, in Street.

The aim with the latest salon was to create an upbeat, forward-thinking environment. John says: "All too often, men's barbers are basic chair and mirror set-ups.

"We wanted to create a warm and welcoming experience for our clients. I learned a lot from my time in London, where you have to sell a salon because the market is so competitive."

The Street location was a former workwear store and needed a complete refurbishment and John worked closely with London-based designer Aaron Probyn to introduce some domestic elements to the salon environment.

One of the most distinctive features of the salon is a small internet cafè and skateboard shop, with brightly designed skateboards displayed on the walls, adding to the salon's contemporary flavour.

"With this salon I wanted to create a space that people enjoyed visiting and working in. The look was very important as I wanted to create a defined identity that could be adapted for the other salons at a later date," he adds.

Fact File Name: Chop Barbers Address: High Street, Street, Somerset Owner: John McMahon Size: 50 sq m Staff: 8 Styling stations: 3 Budget: £25,000 Financing: Self Design: Aaron Probyn How to Achieve the Look Aaron Probyn - 07940 722 069 Tom Dixon - 020 7400 0529