The perfect salon experience - how to create the ultimate vip space
In the second of our experiential design series in partnership with Takara Belmont, we look at how designing a VIP space in your salon can create a heavenly hair haven with Daniel Galvin.
The Daniel Galvin ethos has always had luxury at its heart, making every client feel like they are cared for within classic, contemporary and timeless spaces. Step forward its Selfridges outpost, which opened in spring 2015 and is one of four salons under the brand umbrella. No stranger to style, its design-led interior boasts a neutral colour palette with clean lines and marble finishes, while a VIP area caters for clients looking for privacy. “Our client base at Selfridges differs from our other salons in that there is a high percentage of Middle Eastern clients, which was a key consideration for us when designing the salon space, as we knew privacy, was key," says Daniel Galvin operations director, Stephen Nurse. “We also look after celebrities and high profile clients who require confidentiality, so the space offers us a dual purpose, and really came into its own during the last two years when many clients preferred to socially distance from others.”
Stephen has project managed and overseen each Daniel Galvin salon space alongside Daniel himself and believes that creating great salon design is all about putting your clients first: “We always consider client comfort and movement. Distance between workstations is so important, for example, and everything needs to have a comfortable flow. Alongside this, it’s important to think about the longevity of your design and invest accordingly.” When it comes to colour palettes, the cool, classic and contemporary spaces the brand has become known for allows clients to shine brightly instead: “The colour in our salon truly comes from our clientele,” says Stephen. So why Takara Belmont? “In our opinion, it’s the best. It also represents a fantastic investment, long term, because its pieces really stand the test of time."
If you’re thinking of creating a VIP space in your salon, Stephen says it’s all about the planning: “you need to deliver on your promise of what this space offers. Is it just a separate, private room or a VIP space? If it’s the latter then focus on creating a luxury, private environment that has a point of difference from the rest of the salon.” Get it right and every client will enjoy VIP services as soon as they step into the space.
Recreate the look
The Cadilla styling chair comes in three models to suit any service scenario, from styling to backwash. Based on a classic American car seat design, it boasts comfort, durability and timeless style with a gender-neutral appeal. Meanwhile elevate the backwash experience with the RS Axis, which raises the bar for exemplary shampoo services; its streamlined frame creates a delicate aesthetic without compromising on comfort. In addition, its lumbar support design and deep-cushioned seat (as well as a reclining backrest and gel-filled neck rest) mean every VIP client can sit back and relax in serious style. Find out more at takarahairdressing.co.uk 
Don’t miss our monthly The Perfect Salon Experience features. In each issue, we look at a different aspect of salon design, from adding a spa element to your space to creating the ultimate backwash area. In March, we looked at how your salon's interior can bring your ethos to life. See the full article in our April issue of HJ, this is a sponsored post in collaboration with Takara Belmont.