Interior Design tips for Spa and Salon owners

I was recently approached by a Spa Owner to help with a "refresh".  They are very successful at managing to keep clients who know of their reputation for services however, the owner realizes that the Spa isn't necessarily the most attractive or inviting here in Philadelphia.  So, she asked me for some tips on how to create the ambiance that will leave her clients with a lasting impression.  She wants her clients to leave feeling relaxed and refreshed which is the opposite of what the Interior Design of the Spa says.  So, this is what I presented to her...

Whether you are designing or laying out a new space or already have an existing spa or salon, now is the time to take a first look at your business and learn how the interior design of the space can help you grow.  I’ve come up with top tips to achieving successful design.

Signage:

o   The only way new clients know you exist is if something attracts their attention and they see you. 

o   The way to demonstrate who you are from the exterior is of utmost importance.  In essence, you need to make your windows talk. 

o   Decide what your company is about.  If it is beauty, fashion and hair, show that. 

o   You need to talk to the street.  Perhaps put a big beauty image in the window, an image that speaks to the “lifestyle” you are portraying.  Tell your prospects through imagery that if they come to you, this is the life they can have. 

o   Keep in mind, the actual sign should be clear and legible.  It should be one of the high contrast so that it can be read from a distance.  An important thing to remember is to include spa or salon at the end.  If you don’t do this, no one will know what you are.

Photo Cred:  https://www.pinterest.com/pin/316870523778969042/

Photo Cred:  https://www.pinterest.com/pin/108086459788578731/

Greeting the Client:

o   If at all possible, don’t put the reception desk directly in front or beside the entrance.  It’s important for you to create some space for the client to walk in and start browsing the retail area.  Allow them to feel the energy, hear the music and see people at work.  Let your clients see what they are going to experience, allow them to take control and make their choices.

Photo Cred: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/327355466638398366/

Photo Cred: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/540994973973141951/

Reception:

o   Once you have moved your reception desk to a non-threatening position, make a great impression at it.  The receptionist should be well positioned to welcome clients and thank them as they leave.  If the manager sites up front, he or she can also endorse the effectiveness of any recommended products if the client has questions.

o   Remember, the receptionist desk should be a tool to draw customers into the heart of the salon, not stop them short at the front door.

Photo Cred:  https://www.pinterest.com/pin/AUpLJGf92Ky1UkqPO1hvBLCT0t_Z2Q-16TuJWzyfLIO0U2g6xAIy0_c/

 Lighting:

o   You should start and finish in incandescent lighting.  A warm temperature bulb is the most flattering on the complexion and compliments most salon interiors. What is important, especially in salons is to create levels of lighting.  So, go ahead and use LED lamps but add some true incandescent where you can.

o   The lighting should flatter the complexion and compliment the interior.

o   The lighting should be positioned to eliminate shadows.  How your client looks in the salon chair is crucial in the salon environment.  If the client feels good about your appearance, it reinforces a positive experience for repeat business and increased revenues.  The easiest way to help eliminate shadows on the face is to position wall lighting on either side of the mirror to directly light the complexion.  You could also think about going with a mirror that has integrated lighting.

o   Regarding the work stations.  The front and overhead are where you will get your lighting from.  The wall lighting is for direct illumination on the face to flatter the complexion.  The overhead lighting should be properly designed to help perform all required tasks for hair styling and color application.  Separate task lighting should not be required if the overhead lighting is properly configured.

Photo Cred:  https://www.pinterest.com/pin/99079260527260076/

Photo Cred: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/157133474471947757/

Color:

o   Color determines the entire visual mood of your space. 

o   Use colors that are warm as all color bounces and if you use cool colors, your clients will not look their best.

o   Color closest to your clients, especially should be in a warm skin tone.  The closer your walls are to skin tone, the better your clients will look.

Photo Cred:  https://www.pinterest.com/pin/409053578635636336/

In closing, the bottom line is that when your client walks into your Spa or Salon, their worries should melt away.  Create a lasting impression with the Interior Design as well as Superior Service.