ByMikeCooper
SALONideas
Welcome from the Editor – Mike Cooper
Issue 51 marks another exciting chapter in our salon design journey — and I couldn’t be prouder of how this industry continues to evolve.
Over the past 35 years, I’ve seen countless trends come and go. From mirrored walls in the '90s to minimal monochrome in the 2010s — the way we design salons reflects not only style, but how people want to feel inside them.
And right now, salon interiors are becoming more emotive, Instagrammable, and wellness-led than ever before.
In this issue, we take a closer look at two standout features that are shaping the modern salon experience: the selfie wall — a powerful tool for branding and client engagement — and the Japanese head spa backwash — a luxurious, sensory addition that’s changing what clients expect from a hair wash.
We also explore some of the most requested furniture finishes and layout choices of the season. Whether you're planning a new fit-out or a small refresh, I hope these ideas help you see what’s possible — and profitable — when design works for your brand. As always, thank you for reading and trusting Inspiring Salons.
Mike Cooper Founder & Editor Inspiring Salons Ltd
By Mike Cooper
Social media has transformed how clients interact with your space. A selfie wall is more than just a backdrop — it’s a branded photo opportunity that markets your salon for you.
Why it matters:
Clients love to share their transformations
It becomes a signature visual for your brand
It helps tag your location, attract followers, and encourage rebooking's
Top design tips:
Place your wall near the reception, in a well-lit area
Use your brand colours, neon signs, or textured walls
Consider mirrors, decals or floral elements to make it pop
Add subtle signage with your IG handle or hashtag
Your selfie wall isn’t just decorative — it’s a clever business tool that creates shareable moments and client loyalty.
By Mike Cooper
One of the biggest emerging trends for late 2024 and into 2025 is the Japanese-style head spa a holistic, ultra-comfortable backwash that blends scalp massage, aromatherapy, and deep relaxation.
Why salons are adopting them:
They offer a premium add-on service clients are willing to pay for The reclining bowl and neck support is far more comfortable They enhance the “treatment room” feel of even open-plan salons
Things to consider before installing:
You’ll need access to plumbing and space for the full recline
They pair beautifully with private lighting, soft acoustics and scent
They can help you build a VIP-style experience even in compact salons
If you're looking to add a point of difference head spa units are not only trending, they’re profitable, luxurious and future-ready.
By Mike Cooper
Your furniture should reflect both your brand style and how your salon functions. This year, we’re seeing clear trends in materials, colours, and flexibility:
Top 2025 trends:
Multi-FunctionalPieces–Storage+seating,mobiletrolleys,flexiblelayoutchairs
Boucleeffects&SoftNeutrals–Addswarmth,comfortandapremiumfeel
We’realsoseeingmoremodularreceptiondesks,designedtobeboth statementpiecesandadaptableforsmallspaces.
Mixed Metals – Brass, brushed gold and matte black detailing
Sustainable Materials – Wood accents, recycled upholstery fabrics
DesignDetailsThatBoostLoyalty
Clientsoftenreturnnotjustforservice,buthowyourspacemakesthemfeel. Smalltouchescantransformanaveragevisitintoamemorableone. Ourmust-havedetailsfor2025: ZonedLighting–Spotlightsatmirrors,warmlightinginwaitingareas PrivatePodsorNooks–Evenasimpledividercancreateasenseofintimacy ScentStrategy–Signaturescentsareproventoincreasebrandmemory SoftAcoustics–Usetexturedsurfacesorplantstoreduceechoandcreatecalm Thesesensorydetailsencouragerelaxationandencourageyourclientstolinger longer andrebookmoreoften.
ENZAGIRARDIPARRUCCHIERI
Acquavivadellefonti,Italy
ForSalon
Design
mike.cooper@inspiringsalons.co.uk