At age 25, salon owner Alicia Austin didn’t have to be told to dream big. “We wanted to do something unpredictable and push the limits,” she says of herself and husband, Ryan Soulier. Austin’s dream to open her first salon came true in Saskatoon, where she chose a high-end residential neighbourhood that lacked a sophisticated salon. Together, the pair designed and constructed Capelli Salon Studio, which means “hair” in Italian. “I come from an Italian family, so it’s really important for me to embrace my heritage. Inside, I wanted to have an Italian-European vibe,” says Austin.
There is not a paper magazine in sight, a green effort made to reduce waste. Instead, clients can digitally browse through magazines subscriptions on iPads, while waiting for a hair appointment.
Ceiling suspended blow-dryers mean that stylists can simply guide the tool, while the weight is taken off their hands.
With height-adjustable sinks, stylists can wash and colour comfortably. Chairs and sinks are imported from Italy, in keeping with a classic European atmosphere.
Inspired by a visit to Vasken Demirjian in New York, the salon is accented with green for a minimalist chic effect.
Sparkling Swarovski chandeliers dangle elegantly at the front reception. As an Aveda concept salon, the philosophy and products are in line with Austin’s values for social and environmental responsibility.
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