Smart and understated - densie duke salon

Some people might be daunted by the prospect of turning a former Iceland Foods testing and development centre into a chic, hairdressing salon. But not Denise Duke. The hairdresser thrived on the challenge of transforming the Chester-based site – originally designed as four separate retail units – into a smart, understated, high-quality salon. "I wanted an Italian, sharp feel with nothing too gimmicky. The salon had to be comfortable, with an ergonomically-designed interior," Denise explains.With the help of designer Peter Saville, Denise chose a neutral, off-white hue to give the salon a crisp clean look that is contrasted by dark salon furniture, brightly coloured Bumble and bumble products and stunning flower arrangements Other quirky touches that make the salon stand out form the competition include a contemprary crystal chandelier in reception the wall hanging in the ladies’ lavatory and the floating wenge wood dressing/sink unit. "I am extremely pleased, especially as I have never put a salon together before. I chose many features through gut feeling, what I personally like and what I thought my clients would like. The result was exactly as I had imagined it."

Fact File Name: Denise Duke Address: Frodsham Street, Chester Owners: Denise Duke Size: 1,550sq ft Staff: 12 Styling stations:10 Budget: £250,000 Financing: Private funds and bank Design: Peter Saville Design Furniture: Kiela, via Salon Supplies Features: Double height entrance formed with steel and glass Budget Box Shopfitting (including bespoke furniture): £95,846 Styling units, backwashes and chairs: £23,636 Electrics, lighting: £20,000 Flooring: £16,5000 Air conditioning: £22,500 Miscellaneous: £71,518