Salon interiors: success through teamwork at the amber room

The creation of Amber Room in Caterham, Surrey was truly a collaborative effort. The business was the brainchild of Corinne Lacaze, a hairdresser with 14 years' industry experience, who saw the potential of a local salon.

Corinne found a further five business partners to plough money into the venture. It took all hands on deck to whip the premises into shape, but after two months of 18-hour days the former arts and crafts store was transformed into a luxury hairdressing salon.

Designing the interior was also a group effort, with the owners researching various looks and then pooling ideas. Chocolate brown and cream hues were chosen to create an upmarket, chic, but warm and welcoming feel.

A sense of character is also created through the split levels within the salon. The styling area at the front of the premises is bright and spacious, while the technical section upstairs offers clients privacy. Meanwhile, the backwash area is hidden from view and designed to enhance relaxation with muted lighting and soft music.

Fact File Name: The Amber Room Address: 20 Croydon Road, Caterham, Surrey Owners: The Amber Room Salon Limited Group Clientele: Mixed, primarily female Staff: Five, plus two juniors Styling stations: Three for cutting and three for technical Financing: Self Design: Self Furniture: LSE - 020 8903 0002 Features: A separate backwash area, offering a massage chair, and luxurious environment   Top Tips Set a budget and stick to it If you are doing the work yourself, set a realistic target to get the work done - it always takes longer than you imagine Local companies are more likely to deal on price than bigger ones Allow more time than you need because, more often than not, something will crop up Plan for changes/expansion for the future Don't try to be too clever - keep it simple Luxury can be achieved on a budget.

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