Creative HEAD May 2017

Our No Judgment policy is not just lip service – it’s real.
We add to the experience by taking away intimidation.”
And this happy-go-lucky vibe is reflected in the
extraordinary décor, courtesy of Monk Stevens, who
worked on the set of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and
Dominic Chinea. It’s bright, positive and there’s always
something to look at. “I make sure the salon constantly
changes. This makes for an incredibly exciting experience
for clients as each time they come they see something
new,” explains Sophia. “Behind the floor-to-ceiling colour
shelves is a secret room! Our ’70s psychedelic colour
development room has everything you need, from Game
Boys to Play-Doh and a random book on serial killers.
There’s cross-stitch, Connect 4 and even pom-pom making.
It’s been named ‘happiness in a box’ by the clients, which
makes me feel all fuzzy inside.”
And the fun doesn’t stop there – clients who expect
refreshment choice to be limited to ‘black or white coffee’
will be in awe of the treats at Not Another Salon. For a
start, there are 32 types of tea on the menu. There’s even a
selection of builder’s tea where the client can specifically
choose between Tetley, Yorkshire and PG Tips. Why?
“Because it’s comforting to have your home favourites –
and it makes our clients laugh!” explains Sophia. You can
also take a step back in time with the Taste From Your
Childhood section of the menu, which includes Coke floats
and pink lemonade. And you’ll never ever find a biscuit
wrapped-up in cellophane – instead clients are invited to
dig in to a jam-packed box full of Wagon Wheels, Party
Rings and Jammie Dodgers.
But although the quirky interiors and fabulous
snacks are important, the hair still comes first. Sophia’s
philosophy combines the growing interest in colour with
luxury service. “My innovation is simple – to serve clients
who want creative hair that also looks professional and
78 CREATIVE HEAD