Opulence and practicality combine in east london salon 3thirty
Published
10th Aug 2011
by rachael
After spending several years building up their skills in various areas of the hairdressing industry, Harvender Singh and Tiff J decided it was time to put their expertise to the test and open their own salon. So, after a search of East London for a property, the pair settled on a hair salon that was in a bad state of repair and needed a little TLC. Three weeks later 3Thirty was born.
"The old salon had dull walls and a poor layout, however the size and location were just what we were looking for," Harvender states. "And its large basement space means we can open an academy in the future."
The pair wanted to create a homely atmosphere with soft lighting and elegant furnishings. One of the main features is a pair of huge chandeliers which look great but required the suspended ceiling to be reinforced due to the weight. "We weren't expecting that to happen and the extra work put us back a few days but it's worth it as they are a real talking point," Harvender says.
The salon was designed by the pair with inspiration from a five-star hotel in London's Mayfair. They wanted to create an opulent feel and chose gold and black as the two main colours for a feeling of luxury and elegance. However the salon is anything but dark. Dimmable lights in the backwash and waiting areas adjust the mood to a more relaxing atmosphere, while the chandeliers add brightness.
The gold and black theme runs through the furniture too, with a bespoke gold leaf reception desk featuring a black granite worktop, while a French gold gilt ornate grand sofa with matching chairs nestle in the waiting area around a contemporary fireplace. "It feels like home from home and is cosy on Winter days," Harvender says, "thanks to the fireplace and designer wallpaper."
There are five styling stations in total which carry on the black and gold theme, as well as the retail shelves and designer wallpaper in the backwash area. "The salon is bathed in a soft, flattering light and when clients visit us they can sink into our plush chaise longue and enjoy their surroundings," Harvender says.
Top Tips
- Research prices before you start.
- Ask people their opinion on the décor.
- It's imperative to create a salon that's not too bright or too dull which can cause unflattering shadows.
- Expect the unexpected.
3Thirty in Brief...
What was the most expensive part of the refit?
Adding the partition walls and replastering.
What was the best buy?
The bespoke reception desk and retail shelving unit.
What was the most important part of the refit?
Client comfort was undoubtedly important, closely followed by trendiness. It's a particular trend which isn't to everyone's taste but everyone is comfortable
and relaxed.
Is there anything you would do differently with hindsight?
Choose a different design for the styling chairs to complement the ornate finish.
Fact File
Name: 3Thirty
Address: 330 Old Street, London
Owners: Harvender Singh and Tiff J
Staff: Five
Styling stations: Five
Design: Ornate
Budget: £20,000
Finance: Self
Furniture: French shabby chic
Features: Chandeliers and fireplace
