Michelle louise hair is a tranquil oasis in balham
The stylish south London district of Balham is home to a cornucopia of yummy mummies and style-conscious urbanites - and now they have a chic salon to suit their needs.
Salon owner Michelle Winter grew up in the area, and was aware of how much Balham had changed over the years. "We felt Balham was crying out for a salon like ours," she explains.
Along with her husband and business partner Tim, Michelle purchased an empty property on the bustling Balham High Road, which previously traded as an estate agents.
And, although the salon is a luxurious and tranquil enclave today, it took two months of hard work to transform. The building was in a bad state of repair at the time of purchase, and as well as removing and relevelling a sloping floor, Michelle and Tim also had to remove partition walls, reroute the mains and waste pipes, and rewire the entire premises.
The duo also had to contend with an unconventionally shaped salon - narrowing from the front into an almost triangular shape at the rear. However, rather than seeing this unusual layout as a problem, Michelle and Tim's self-created design uses colour and mirrors for a spacious, bright interior. Careful thought, design, and attention to detail means the space has been used to its maximum potential, and now adds to the individuality of the salon.
Clean lines, a sleek design, and open space are integral to the look. Brown leather, natural walnut storage units and white gloss flooring combine for contrasting textures, while also reflecting the eco-friendly concept of the brand.
"Our salon was designed with the residents of the local area in mind," says Michelle. "While trying not to alienate any clients, we know that the people of Balham appreciate stylish shops, bars and restaurants. We have designed a salon that fits with these establishments, and which creates a tranquil sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the main street."
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Fact File
Name: Michelle Louise Hair
Address: 214 Balham High Road, London
Owner: Michelle and Tim Winter
Staff: Six
Budget: £45,670
Design: Self
Features: Separate back wash; triangular-shaped floorplan.
Essential in Brief...
How would you describe the salon's image?
Contemporary and stylish, but also warm and inviting.
What was your best buy?
The styling stations.
What was the most expensive part of the refit?
The flooring.
