The concept of Salon Lane is to deliver freedom to hair stylists and beauty therapists, giving them flexible and affordable spaces that can be personalised.

The project is situated in a 1920s Lamson Paragon factory and, although not heritage listed, was treated with architectural respect for the historic fabric of the building. Facilities are abundant and include, a main reception with waiting area, communal coffee station, communal hair area with 19 individual hair stations and wash basins; As well as client processing area, an events space, communal colour room plus 21 private studios for hair, beauty and wellness to cater for single, double or deluxe suites. In addition, there are waiting areas and hydration points and a communal training room that can be booked for education, events, training and seminars.

The design focuses on efficiency, multi-use, the realisation of a new business model and the creation of a dynamic, creative community. Every design decision responded to efficient use, and multi-use of every aspect of the building. Waste was significantly reduced because of the shared spaces, fit-out, events areas and reception. Many of the spaces also have multi-purposes, for example, the processing area for clients to retreat while waiting for their colour to develop also doubles as an events space.

In this multi-use and flexible environment, the design interpretation was driven by the desire to create a communal space for individuals. The design is timeless and classic, yet modern and refined – appealing to creatives through its simplistic beauty and the endless possibilities that it presents.

Furniture: Comfortel, Zanui, Life Interiors, Globewest, Stylecraft, AWM, Krost. Lighting: (Specified/sourced by Malaya Blonde in collaboration with Siren) Euroluce, TecLed, Space Furniture, ECC. Finishes: Specialty paint finishes by Ludi Braga, Kvadrat Maharam, Wortley, Polytec, Lamicolor Abet Laminati, Laminex, Wilsonart, Dulux, Interpon, Easycraft, Porta Timber, Corian, Essa Stone, Artedomus, Skheme, Academy Tiles, Interface, RC+D. Fittings & Fixtures: Zip Industries, Reece Plumbing, Blanco, Gareth Ashton, Grohe, Caroma, Oliveri, Franke, Handy Sanitisers, Hafele, Index & Co, Zetr.

Photography: Terence Chin