3 minute read
SALON OF THE MONTH
Salon of the month Joshuaa Shaun Hairdressing
Joshuaa Shaun Hairdressing are a boutique, gender neutral salon based in Stirchley, Birmingham and boast a salon ethos of inclusivity as they strive to create a safe space for clients to visit, free from judgement and discrimination no matter who they are and how they identify.
“This pushes forward into our inspiration for the salon interior, as we wanted to create a warm and home-like space that was minimalistic and clean, inviting and comforting. Adding pops of colour and fun into the space while not defl ecting from the relaxing atmosphere we like to create for our clients to enjoy.” Added Owner, Joshua Shaun.
Inspired by a love for California, their chic and earthy interiors, neutral colour palettes, accent colours and plenty of plants to bring the outdoors in, along with the aim for a more sustainable approach also inspired the salon design decisions.
“We wanted to create an earthy and minimalistic vibe that was comforting and relaxing. Using natural materials and neutral colours, we wanted to stay away from a clinical feel paired with the use of dark salon furniture and high gloss surfaces that is commonly used in salon décor.
“We strived for an inviting and individual space that spoke our brand ethos and vision clearly. Biscuit colour styling chairs, natural wood elements and polished concrete fl ooring have really helped us achieve this and pops of dark green and blush pink in patterned designs keep our brand aesthetics aligned throughout the space without over taking the overall atmosphere.
“The variation of our 42 plants really do bring a zen feeling of nature and the outdoors in, and the candy strip façade and step as they really showcase the salons personality and add a fun element to the design.”
The salon originally opened in June 2012 and for seven years occupied the unit next door to their current home. Joshua explained that the original aesthetic was vintage chic as, he was 22 when Joshuaa Shaun fi rst opened and had different ideas
for the ideal salon: “It only felt right to rebrand to represent the more matured and rounded salon we had grown into when we decided to relocate and relaunch in May 2019.
“Steering away from high gloss, chandeliers and dark furniture was very important in the design decisions while still creating a high end and luxurious feel – natural and raw materials were key to our goal of working towards a more sustainable working environment, which we are currently taking steps towards.”
The salon is a small boutique and Joshua explained: “We aren’t driven by bigger and better but instead quality and experience. Our interior offers a friendly and familiar space free from any pretence or judgement. We use high end sustainable products with a creative team that are passionate in making sure our client’s personality and expression is listened to and respected through great hair.”
Providing an experience of great quality isn’t the only the thing which helps the salon to stand out but creating a homely and familiar, yet comforting space was really important to Joshua as he wanted the environment to refl ect the aim of ‘a safe space’ for people to visit.
“The number of people within the LBTQ+ community alone that feel uncomfortable in visiting a hair salon with fears of being mis-gendered, turned away and embarrassed was uncomfortable for us. I really felt I needed do my part by creating a space that people can express themselves comfortably while accessing services they should be able to inclusively enjoy.” Joshua added.
Joshua believes that interiors have a real power in how people experience and respond to a space. As the hair and beauty industry is always offering new and innovative techniques and services to help clients feel amazing, Joshua believes the space in which that happens should have the same impact. @joshuaashaun.hairsalon
