Simple and relaxing - indigo

After honing his creativity as a session stylist around the world, Neil Hopkins decided to use his hairdressing skills in his own salon by putting down roots in Leamington Spa.His salon, Indigo, was an existing hairdressing business but Neil wasn't impressed with the interior design."The salon decor was coffee and cream and very tired around the edges. It was in a prime location however; right in the town centre, so I knew I could give it a new injection of life," Neil explains. Neil had a clear idea of what he wanted to achieve - somewhere relaxing for clients and staff - and it took just one month to transform the Grade II listed, two-storey salon into his vision. A simple colour scheme of cool greens, pale greys, silvers, beige tones and natural woods is perfectly complemented by classic recessed halogen spotlights with tilt action above the styling stations, and practical wall lights. Special care has been taken with the waiting area, which has been designed as a shopping area, to encourage clients to touch, feel and play with products when they come into the salon. As well as the large reception desk, the area features tub-style waiting chairs for clients.Neil is delighted with his finished look, which he describes as easy and relaxed. He adds: "The salon is really a place that both clients and staff can enjoy visiting, and although it has a laid-back ambience, everyone knows exactly what is going on." Pictures>>

Fact File Name: Indigo Address: 28 Regent Street, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire Owner: Neil Hopkins Size: 1,000sq ft over two floors Staff: Eight Styling stations: 10 Budget: £194,000 Financing: self Design: Malachite Interiors Features: solid oak work tops, lounge area, air conditioning. Budget Box Flooring: £11,000 Building works: £120,000 Electrics: £17,000 Plumbing: £15,000 Fees: £6,000 Air conditioning: £9,000 Computer software: £4,000 How To Achieve The Look Design: Malachite Interiors - 024 7667 8413 Furniture: SEC - 01455 286285 Reception furniture: Dwell - 08700 600186 Building works : Blueprint Construction - 07968 281303
	Top Tips Employ a designer Don't project manage yourself Add more to your budget than you think you will need. More Pictures>></td>