The perfect salon experience – how to elevate the backwash zone

As part of our design series in partnership with Takara Belmont, we look at how designing the backwash zone in your salon can be a true treat for the senses with Ena Salon. Ena Salon has always had comfort in mind, taking every client on a relaxing journey. Housed in close proximity to Covent Garden, the salon, which is the brainchild of Pedro Inchenko and Johnny Othona, boasts a down-to-earth, approachable vibe, complemented by both its people and purpose.

“Sustainability is a key pillar of our brand,” says co-director, Johnny Othona, “and within that we are always looking at how to improve the client experience, to sustain their needs, too.” The salon boasts beautifully designed styling spaces housed over five floors, hallmarked by a backwash experience with relaxation in mind. “Our backwash is a huge part of our client journey,” says Johnny. “We have commissioned an artist to hand paint a bespoke ceiling scape for this every six months. These are nature-based, in line with our sustainable ethos, and allow clients to literally escape while they relax during this part of their appointment.”

When it comes to creating a good salon design, Johnny believes it’s about being receptive to your space first: “Our building is Grade II Listed, so we wanted to be sensitive to that first and foremost. We then made it functional before accentuating it with our design detail.” And what about colour palettes? “We used earthy tones, with accents of colour, such as our original stained glass window and hand-painted ceiling scapes.”

So why Takara Belmont? “Form and function are key elements of design for us. We were drawn to the sensitive design of its products; salon furniture has to be in line with your brand and for us, Takara Belmont was the perfect partnership.” According to Johnny, upping your backwash game makes sense in more ways than one: “Being in tune with the five senses is key to influencing client experience. Everything from the sound to the smell must complement, not clash, and if you’re thinking of creating more of a backwash ‘zone’ look at how you can maximise space, create a point of difference and appeal to the senses somehow.”

So whether it’s via the scents you use, the texture of the towels, or the functionality of the furniture, always appeal to the senses. And if done correctly, it will all combine to create a stylish symphony of both comfort and joy.

Recreate the look

Ena Salon is all about sophistication. Get the look by choosing the Eos styling chair. With natural textures and tones, this experience-led chair includes features such as removable or replaceable cushions and a Brindle or Rosewood backrest. Meanwhile, the RS Prime is perfectly suited to salons that want to deliver maximum comfort, even with limited space. Its removable gel-filled neck cushion cradles the client’s head in comfort. Along with thermostatic control that regulates water pressure and temperature, and a free-swivelling shower head with retracting cord, a premium service is assured every time. See more at www.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 a private area for VIP guests. In April we looked at the power of creating an ultimate VIP Space in your salon. See the full article in our May issue of HJ, this is a sponsored post in collaboration with Takara Belmont.