Monochrome makes an interior impact at inkfish salon in truro

After spending 28 years building a good reputation in the local area, Vidette Chivers decided it was time for a new look and set about transforming her Truro salon. And, as well as a redesign, it was the prefect opportunity to change the name and brand of the business; iNkfish was born and in just eight days Vidette and her team transformed the worn-out salon into a contemporary, design-led environment. “Space and light were key to the new-look salon,” she said. "The original 645sq ft space was completely gutted with the old fittings, flooring, plumbing, wiring and lighting removed. A glass panel was installed to open up the back of the salon and stairwell. “I wanted to create a comfortable yet stylish environment to enhance the clients experience,” Vidette said. “We have iNkfish two coming soon and we have a great blueprint for that salon now.” [gallery ids="22333,22336,22335"] Why did you choose the designers? I have worked with Absolute on the refit and rebranding of the salon and I also like the work they have done for other local businesses including Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Cornwall restaurant in Newquay. Tell us about the lighting There are inset LED white ceiling lights throughout which provide a clear light – perfect for colouring. The reception area has Italian-designed light fittings made from ceramic, rubber and wood with glass globes and crystal bulbs to create a focal point. Describe the reception area. I gave a lot of thought to this area as it is the first place clients see and can make or break an impression. We have two custom-made desks in a black gloss finish with a white corian finish to the tops. They sit side by side at the front of the salon; one to welcome clients and the other for clients leaving. What is the colour scheme? We opted for a black and white scheme as monochrome never goes out of fashion. The ceiling is painted a bright matte white which complements the Italian marble tiled flooring and ties in with the crisp, reflective theme. What other furnishings are there in the salon? We have installed floating lightbox shelves in the reception area to showcase our retail products. There are large comfortable leather Barcelona chairs in the waiting area as well. How many styling stations are there in the salon? There are 15 in total – 10 on the ground floor and five on the first floor. Each has a floor-to-ceiling mirror which has been framed in a gloss finish to co-ordinate with the styling chairs, which are FA Porsche for MG Bros from Aston & Fincher. Would you change anything with hindsight? No, I love the salon – but next time I will try to be more decisive and leave the builders to their work. I asked them to move all the styling stations 6" to the left and then asked them to move them back again. [gallery ids="22334,22327,22328"] FACT FILE Name: iNkfish Address: 10 New Bridge Street, Truro, Cornwall Owner: Vidette Chivers Staff: 26 Styling: 15 Budget: £70,000 Financing: Self How to achieve the look Design: Absolute: 01872 264775 Furniture: Aston & Fincher: 01872 222684