The client had issues with the design and technical problems in their first branch, which
What did they want their space to feel like?
The client wanted the new salon to retain the same vibe as the previous branches but with improvements. Their goal was to create a similar atmosphere but with modifications that would attract both children and teenagers. The new design needed to be fun and vibrant without being too childish, ensuring it was suitable for teens as well.
Any specific concerns?
Time: A time crunch occurred due to the need for building management approvals in Dubai, which delayed the process slightly. However, the client understood this delay as a part of the commercial space requirements.
Budget: There were no major budget issues. The client was particular about getting the right contractor for the job, ensuring the quality of work was up to their expectations, even when faced with a range of budget quotes from different vendors.
Trust and Taste Mismatch: There were no concerns regarding trust or a mismatch in taste. The client was clear about their expectations for both the design and functionality of the space, which were aligned with the final design.
Project Scope
- Salon (Hairdressing Stations)
- Pedicure Station
- Hair Washing Station
- Waiting Area for Parents
- Painting Station
- Reception Area
Timeline Promised vs Delivered:
Delivered Timeline: The design was submitted on schedule, but subsequent changes requested by building management caused some back-and-forth delays.
Challenges We Faced
Safety Considerations: Since this was a children’s space, safety was a concern, and we needed to make sure the design didn’t have sharp corners and the materials were safe for children. Our team added curves and rounded edges everywhere, from furniture to
wall treatments.
Partition Design: Another challenge that led from design to implementation was the proposed partition. The first two designs were metal and wood, respectively, both of which were declined by the client for safety issues with children and fire code issues. Our design team needed to fabricate a new division with non-harmful materials that
were fire-retardant. That meant integrating wood and metal into the design in a manner that was functional while adhering to the safety requirements of the constraints.
Why Our Design Worked
-
Use of Curved Elements: One of our best design decisions was the presence ofcurved lines and shapes in the design. The design featured curved stations,rounded edges, and arches on the walls. These served not only to prevent thechild from encountering sharp corners to encounter, but they also lent the room aplayful children’s atmosphere. This was also in line with the client’s vision todevelop a welcoming, playful space for kids that still felt contemporary enoughfor teens.
-
Incorporation of Fun, Vibrant Colours: The client requested a space that retainedthe same colour scheme (yellow, green, and blue) as the previous branch, butwith some new elements to make the space feel fresh and engaging. The designwas centered on application of these colours that did not appear too child-ish butrather aimed at producing a lively and welcoming environment to the children andteens so that the salon is not overly restricted to a specific age category.
-
Selection of Material Choices: Our designers were also especially motivated toselect the materials which were not only safe but also durable. As an example,porcelain tiles were laid so that it would look just like the tiles of wood, and therewas no fear that water spilled on the ground could damage anything. Theseconstruction options implied that the place would be habitable and durable.
Most Unexpected or Weird Things That Happened
-
A funny goof-up occurred with the reception counter design, which initially failed toconsider the accessibility for wheelchair users. This was pointed out by buildingmanagement, and the team had to quickly redesign the counter to ensure it met thehandicapped access standards. Furthermore, a mistake in calculating the height of thedisplay cabinet led to a surprise that it touched the ceiling when it was executed,prompting additional design modifications.
-
A memorable moment occurred during the design process when the client emphasizedthe need for an attractive environment not just for children but also for teenagers. Theintroduction of features like gaming consoles and more teen-friendly elements was asurprise addition that set the salon apart from traditional kids’ spaces. The client wasextremely happy with the balance achieved between fun for kids and appealingaesthetics for teens.
Client’s Reaction
After the final design submission, the client, Kiran, was overjoyed with the result. The design was approved without any major changes, and the client called late at night to express how pleased she was with the outcome. She said, “Everything looks perfect! We don’t have any problem with the design. Both Kiran and her husband were thrilled with how the space came together, particularly the colour palette and functional zones that catered to both children and teenagers.
