With a brand-new academy dedicated to the professional hairstylist, Moroccanoil has created a space that embodies and inspires creativity.
With its new, state-of-the-art academy in midtown New York, Moroccanoil has created a space that checks all the boxes for today’s professional hairstylist. From customized workstations to a digitally sound layout, the academy speaks to hairstylists of all skill sets.
“We really want to offer education to all stylists—no matter where they’re from, who they are, whether or not they are part of a Moroccanoil salon. The idea is that any salon can come to this academy space, educate and foster their careers, and take education that’s in line with their interests, too,” says Robert Ham, vice president of global education.
Changing Spaces
The academy features a 4,000-squarefoot space for classes that can be divided in half, and features a customizable layout with 30 individual stations and custom-made tripod stands that lock into the floor.
“Education changes so you need to be able to change it up,” says Ham. “I love the openness of the space and how it can be transformed into a multifunctional space that works as a classroom, studio, workshop or hair salon.”
The versatile design goes hand-in-hand with Moroccanoil’s approach to education. From classes for cutting and styling to integrated business programs and workshops, the academy provides salon owners, managers and hairstylists with comprehensive learning opportunities.
Digital by Design
Keeping up with the evolving world of education was top of mind during the design process. The academy is completely wireless and features projectors for each wall, microphones and speakers in the ceiling, along with a 360-degree camera on stage.
“The space has really been optimized to provide easily accessible education, no matter how you want to learn; whether it’s in person or digitally,” says Ham.
The academy also includes a fully equipped content studio for photo and video shoots. “We can create content and put it out immediately, since more stylists are turning toward social and digital platforms for education.
All in the Details
It’s no surprise that the academy features luxurious accents that have become a signature for the brand—from brass detailing to tiled walls to lots of natural light.
“It’s designed to be an academy bar. Our co-founder, Ofer, wanted people to be able to sit having coffee or their lunch and see the beautiful skyline, so he installed marble bar tops and chairs,” says Ham. “We want people to walk in and have their first impression be that they’re wowed by the beauty. That’s their first impression. But most importantly. it’s an all-around fun and creative space.” The academy’s entrance also features alcoves that include temporary installations spotlighting their hero product: the Moroccanoil Treatment.
Since the brand’s offices are located adjacent to the academy, it keeps their e
ducation team close to the action.
“We want to foster collaboration. We have an open concept environment, so everybody is working together.”
And the same can be said of the academy. “It’s a space to be creative and get inspiration. I want people to leave with techniques they can implement in the salon,” Ham adds. “Our brand was built and founded on the commitment from the hairdresser. Now, we just want to give back to them.”
Details
Opened in January 2020
Space: 8,500 square feet
Stations: 30
Classrooms: 2
Instagram: @moroccanoilpro
Website: moroccanoilprofessionals.com
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