Essensuals London Opens Its Much Anticipated US Salon
Glow designs the ultimate new salon experience for the historic British brand on Melrose Ave. in Los Angeles.
Inspired by the brand’s iconic black and white identity, the salon communicates the contrast through a dark exterior in smooth dyed plaster and a bright, primarily white interior. Large frameless windows wrap the corner of the building, bringing natural light to the interior and maximizing the street view of the salon’s retail section. A Union Jack embedded into the floor forms the axis of the salon and helps define the various zones. The podium style reception acts as a pivot point to connect the retail area, main salon and the waiting area. A second counter is located in the retail area incorporating merchandise and display with expert staff on hand to give advice on selecting the right product.
The stylist stations consist of full height side lit LED mirrors, which along with the high gloss epoxy floor further exaggerate the ceiling height. The carefully chosen subtle palette of metallic finishes in champagne, fabrics in dark brown, and flooring in warm grey enhances the sophisticated atmosphere. Use of wavy panels and tufted seating add interesting textural elements, while large format editorial style photography focus attention on the Essensuals London fashion forward concept. A large canopy in dark stained bamboo wraps over the freestanding stations helping to define the linear arrangement. These stations are designed to be interlocking and can be stacked away when the salon is used for education and demonstrations. The units themselves are paired with trolleys that include pull out fronts for storing all of the stylists’ equipment as well as internal power.
The waiting area features custom built in tufted seating, a modern take on English Chesterfield sofas. The shampoo area is screened off from the main space to create a more intimate area with softer lighting. A large custom mercury pebble light designed by iconic British designer Ross Lovegrove for Artimede hangs above the white leather shampoo chairs, creating a sense of falling water and projecting patterns onto the ceiling. White wavy wall panels add further texture and depth to the area and subtlety references flowing hair. Dark stained bamboo cabinets anchor the space and provide open and closed storage for the whole salon.
The upstairs is the location for the ‘Color Box’, which features a large frameless glass wall leading out to a rooftop deck. The color box is also home to the ‘heritage wall’, which lines the staircase. This applied graphic showcases the unique history of the brand and just how long they have been at the forefront and fashion and style. The rooftop deck has a wrapping bench in Ipe hardwood with bright red cushions creating a comfortable outdoor environment for clients and special events.
The final surprise comes upon visiting the restrooms where Essensuals London British roots are brought home with color and humor. Large-scale graphic portraits incorporating the Union Jack, the Queen of England and the Prince of Wales wrap the walls.
