From Hardware to Hair Salon Heaven- Absolute Hair

From Hardware to Hair Salon – this transformation didn’t happen overnight…

Since 2009, Absolute Hair has been open in Waikanae. The first location was a small but gracious space in Ngaio Rd

It fitted the bill pretty well at the beginning as owner Kirsten was establishing a new salon business and looking after a young family.

However, in the last few years, Absolute Hair has become a destination hair salon with its reputation for colour specialists services and experienced, knowledgeable stylists. Plus a desirable hair salon for stylists wanting to work within the Absolute Hair environment.

The wee room that once was perfect had become a busy and frantic space. With a team of 7, it was a constant juggle having enough seats and space for everyone to work together!

After a few false starts and projects that were not realised a space finally became available that was perfect. It was a huge project turning a derelict old hardware store into the beauty Kirsten envisioned. With over 5 times the space it was the perfect next step in the evolution of Absolute Hair.

History

The Waikanae Hardware building had been sold and the business moved on from its location in Main Rd a couple of years earlier. The building needed substantial earthquake strengthening and had been sitting empty for all this time.

It was a time when the Main Rd traffic had quietened down due to the new expressway and business confidence in the Main Rd was declining. A big empty shop just made things feel worse.

With over 5 months of strengthening work and new fit-outs, the new space at 38a Main Rd was transformed.

So exciting!!

Here are some of the transformation pictures as the project got underway.

The premise has been divided and now houses 2 shops.

Absolute Hair and a laundromat next door. With access to parking at the rear and an outdoor area, this site is perfect.

Massive amounts of work have been done to the structure. Now it is probably the safest building to be in an earthquake in Waikanae!

The hard work begins.

Hair Salon Fit-out

Next came the best bit for us which is making it into a beautiful state of the art hair salon.

Designing a space that is great for customers and the team who work it is so exciting!

Hours of thought have gone into designing all of the custom-built furniture. It’s been worth every minute. It will stand the test of time and make coming to work a delight. We worked with Ross who had helped us make our last wee salon such a success despite its size!

A lighting designer helped us create the atmosphere we wanted and it was painted head to toe.

Flow and use of space in a hair salon is so important for the design to be a success. We wanted a salon that was modern, bright and easy to keep clean and tidy.

Customer comfort was top of mind when we planned the layout. There is space to sit and relax, use your computers, make refreshments and eat lunch! Basically whatever takes your fancy.

We are so aware that these days time having your hair done is precious “me” time. Making the salon super comfortable and relaxing was a priority.