Preserving heritage at atelia salon & spa

Atelier Salon & Spa in Redbourn, Hertfordshire, is housed in a stunning Grade II listed building, which has retained all its original charm, while offering all the trimmings of a contemporary hairdressing business.

The building's listed status meant certain features couldn't be touched - including the stunning wooden beams in the older parts of the building, which date from 1637. 

Creating an overall look that was in keeping with the age of the building and still contemporary was important to owners, Karen Hyam and Lorraine Fletcher. "We had a clear idea of what we wanted to achieve from the beginning, so sourced all the fittings and furniture ourselves and worked closely with the architect," says Karen.

Atlier's entrance area features a bespoke juice bar and reception desk, plus an expanse of retail shelving. Both the juice bar and reception desk are made from oak to a simple design that is modern, yet sympathetic to the traditional style of the building.

The overall result is a blend of original features with a modern, stylish finish, ideal for attracting a broad mix of clients

Fact File Name: Atelier Salon & Spa Address: 19-20 High Street, Redbourn, Hertfordshire Owner: Karen Hyam and Lorraine Fletcher Clientele: Professional 30 to 50-year-olds, including men Styling stations: 12 Size: 1,600sq ft over two floors Budget: £250,000 Financing: Self and bank Design: Own concept Furniture: Excel, LSE Features: Bespoke oak wood juice bar; original beams; feature walls. Budget Box Styling units and chairs: £30,000 Architect's fees: £8,000 Building works: £180,000 Backwashes: £12,000; Computer system (Millennium Software): £5,000; Flooring: £8,000. Miscellaneous: £7,000. Top Tips Employ a builder you can trust Get a fixed price quote at the beginning of the project Take time to source the right furniture Have a definite idea of the finished look you want.