Ten out of ten at the b.ten salon

When Jamie Hill first set eyes on a multi-level building in Swansea city centre that had formerly been occupied by a travel agent, he was awash with inspiration.

The spacious premises, set in a bustling location, simply begged to be turned into a pampering retreat for clients wanting to escape the rush, stresses and strains of everyday life. And with the help of owner Simon George, a self-made entrepreneur, he was able to turn his dream into a reality known as b.ten.

Jamie cherry-picked ideas gleaned from nine years working in the industry and listening to clients, and opted for a modern salon with a casual ambience.

An antique French retro chic theme was the aim and this was achieved by blending old with new, and mixing calming tones with splashes of bright colour. "It's something every age group can relate to and appreciate," says Jamie.

Fact File Name: b.ten Address: 1-7 College Street, Swansea, West Glamorgan, Wales Owners: Simon George and salon director Jamie Hill Size: 3,500sq ft Clientele: Young fashionable to seniors insisting on cutting-edge style and colour Staff: 13 Styling stations: 10 cutting, seven colouring Budget: £250,000 Financing:Bank and private investor Design: Signature design Furniture: Aston & Fincher, bespoke Features: Vast space, contemporary cutting stations, colour lounge, colour bar, relaxation and beauty therapy floor and bespoke toilets. Sources Building Work - New Image Shopfitters: 01792 299403 Furniture - Aston & Fincher: 01792 460785   Top Tips Have a project manager and research every aspect of the build Get involved. It will be very rewarding in the end Make sure your budget is realistic Allow more time than you need because, more often than not, something will crop up It can get very stressful at times - allow time for yourself Use it as a learning curve and have fun.