The perfect salon experience: how to cater to an international and discerning client base

Subtle opulence is the MO at Salon Sloane in London, Co-Founder Belle Cannan speaks to us about understated elegance and how to make your salon interior design reflect that, with a little help from Takara Belmont.

Just off Sloane Square in London’s prestigious Chelsea neighbourhood, Salon Sloane is a collaboration of world-class hairdressers, colourists and next generation talent all in one boutique salon. The vibe is modern and neutral, but a world away from the clinical and austere salons of yesteryear. “Our clientele are very loyal and also international, they are interested in their hair health but they’re also inspired by the latest catwalk trends,” explains Belle Cannan, who co-founded Salon Sloane with award-winning stylist John Vial. Therefore the duo make it a priority for their team to be ahead of the latest trends. In fact, the team have the opportunity to work on fashion shows, editorials, magazine shoots and music videos, all of which mean they are at the very forefront of fashion.

So it makes sense then that the salon itself is an effortlessly stylish backdrop to the beautiful work taking place. “We wanted the lighting to be incredibly flattering,” stresses Belle. “Our mirrors actually have a soft reflection for clients, who are inevitably in front of the mirror a lot.” Elsewhere a mix of finishes creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. “We mixed walnut wood, Carrera marble and brass to bring a mix of grains and textures to the space. It’s neutral without being too cold and minimal, we wanted a feeling of warmth and subtle opulence throughout,” she explains. When it comes to the furniture for the salon, Takara Belmont was the natural choice. “Our stylists and technicians enjoy the aesthetics, versatility and functionality of the brand, and our clients love the comfort. All the furniture we chose is cohesive with the salon environment and ambience,” Belle adds. When it comes to what she looks for in a styling chair Belle cites the Adria II's functionality, design, comfort and durability.

The RS Adria II backwashes bring an extra element of luxury and design co-ordination that is designed for pure relaxation.“Again it’s for the client's comfort – but they are not only relaxing, they work with the aesthetic of the salon. Our team love that the shower heads have power and their client’s neck is supported.”

Belle knows that there is a certain type of quality that her clients expect. “They want understated, bespoke, luxury hair,” remarks Belle. And, just like the services on offer, the salon itself offers an understated, luxury experience too.

Recreate the Look

Adria II Styling Chair First introduced over five decades ago, Takara Belmont Adria II marks the evolution of a chair whose agility, versatility and reliability has seen it remain a popular choice. Choose from a black or white gloss backrest shell and a range of upholstery colours, not forgetting features such as removable cushions, 360˚ lockable rotation, and an optional protective backrest cover, which is ideal for colour clients. £1,250-£1,280 Roller Ball F colour processor - wall-mounted version As a world-first launched in 1989, The Roller Ball infrared processor revolutionised colour services by halving processing time and achieving more vibrant, durable colour results. With mobile and wall-mounted versions in six colours, Roller Ball F is the choice of colour icons including Trevor Sorbie and Daniel Galvin. Roller Ball F - mobile version £2,100, wall mounted version £2,600 Now with 0%, zero deposit Finance Lease, visit www.takarahairdressing.co.uk Be inspired by last month's Perfect Salon Experience instalment. This is a sponsored feature in partnership with Takara Belmont.