Peace and tranquility at essence hair & beauty

The Essence Hair & Beauty salon in Newbury, Berkshire, combines contemporary clean lines with character.

This luxe and tranquil environment created by owner Koulla Swann encapsulates the spirit of product company Aveda, by showcasing the very best of natural materials in an urban setting.

Koulla began hairdressing 25 years ago, working in a prestigious London salon. After travelling in the US and Australia, she settled in Newbury, and in July 2007 found an ideal location for her Aveda Concept Salon.

Passionate about the philosophy of the brand, Koulla's motivation was to create the first environmentally aware hair salon in the town, providing guests with not only fantastic products and outstanding service, but also peace and tranquility.

Fact File Name: Essence Hair & Beauty Address: 10 The Broadway, Newbury, Berkshire Owner: Koulla Swann Size: 1,000sq ft Staff: Five Clientele: Exclusive, affluent, professional Styling stations: Seven Budget: £90,000 Financing: Own and bank loan Top Tips Use your imagination and design the salon yourself If you're on a tight budget, avoid design companies Source your own equipment and barter with suppliers for a better price Use friends and family as much as possible for labour and second opinions Always get at least three quotes from builders, electricians and plumbers to compare prices and attitudes.