Robust, Textural and Reflective: The Disco Hair Salon in Brisbane by J.AR Office.

A reimagining of a beloved hairdresser and cultural institution in inner Brisbane by J.AR Office, The Disco reinterprets the salon interior without diminishing its history. Originally opened in 2012 and trading as Horse Meat Disco, this hair salon has cultivated a deep sense of community built on an appreciation of diversity and accessibility.

Acknowledging this legacy, the design team responded to the brief by elevating the everyday experience of patrons and staff while establishing a visual dialogue with the lively streetscape of Stones Corner. A large full-height window allows the spectacle on either side of the glass to be observed. Hair is cut and coloured in the ‘disco’ room, providing a spirited show for pedestrians to witness through the front window. Moments of privacy and respite are achieved in the intimate hair washroom entered through a curved metal aperture.

KULT Barber Shop in Odessa, Ukraine by Sivak&Partners.

A monolithic dark grey marble reception desk is enhanced by a shiny stainless steel dividing panel at this barber shop in Odessa...

The intentionally austere space has robust, textural, reflective materials that create a quiet backdrop that prioritises salon activity. A choreographed spatial sequence offers diverse atmospheres for salon services and provides functionality and flexibility for staff.

Services are zoned, and the spatial sequence is enriched with a sensual material palette and moments of compression and release. Patrons enter a narrow, natural-coir-lined corridor with dim, warm lighting. They arrive at a marble bench anchored by a square column and illuminated circular form overhead. This reception counter doubles as the colour-mixing area, encouraging social interaction.

Utilising the existing structure, the ceiling, shopfront, floor, ramp and columns were retained and guided the spatial planning. These elements contribute to the sustainable, cost-effective fit-out and allow investment in luxurious, tactile touchpoints that elevate the customer experience: marble reception and table, linished stainless-steel joinery and high-quality lighting.

Usfin Atelier: Genderless Hair Salon in St Peters by George Livissianis.

Housed within Precinct 75 in St Peter’s, the 300 square metre minimalist-style salon has been created to be flexible and totally mobile...

[Images courtesy of J.AR Office. Photography by David Chatfield.]