Expert advice: what to look for when shopping for styling stations

Are you looking for one key piece of furniture this year? HJi looks at a selection of essential items for the salon, with tips from the experts

Whether it is floor to ceiling, bespoke, or island, the styling station is an integral part of any salon design.

Clients will be sitting and looking at themselves, so you want this area to be fuss-free, design-led and practical - look for hidden drawers and shelves to keep clutter at a minimum.

 

Julie Braithwaite, marketing director of REM, offers these top tips when choosing a styling station:

1. Your styling units will set the tone for the whole salon and help to attract new customers, so choose carefully.

2. Make sure that your styling unit matches your chairs and the overall look - some manufacturers make styling units and chairs to order so you can choose the complete look.

3. A generous shelf for clients' bags and coffee is a must, while a holster for hairdryers is a great addition.

4. Clutter-free areas make for better working conditions and, again, are more pleasant for clients.

5. Don't forget the footrest; if your styling unit doesn't have an integral footrest, get one that you can attach to the station.

Once you've chosen the ideal styling station, make sure the rest of your salon is up to scratch:

• Find the perfect styling chair
• Choose a brilliant backwash
• What to look for when choosing a reception desk