Intimate Settings: This Montreal business introduces the concept of boutique salons
By Tina Christopoulos
Once reserved for the retail sector, boutique concepts have grown in popularity around the world, first in hotels and now finally, in salons. Montreal’s newest hair spa, Femme Coiffure, in the upscale Westmount neighbourhood, is no more than 900 sq. ft. but packs a major punch.
Upon entering the modern, all-white René Furterer concept salon, you’re immediately exposed to an environment of personalized care and attention. Refreshingly straightforward, the first thing guests see is a reception desk and five consultation and cutting stations. There isn’t the hustle and bustle of larger salons. With no waiting area, clients are immediately welcomed and personally greeted.
Inspired by the quality of the René Furterer product line and the company’s scientific approach to hair care, owner Daniel Reboh wanted to create a genuine spa for hair, going beyond just what meets the eye. This translates perfectly into the technical area of the salon, a room tucked away behind the main space where clients get their scalp examined with the use of a capiloscope microscope. The team at Femme Coiffure then puts the emphasis on a proper diagnosis and prescription of the scalp.
“Clients are bombarded with products these days,” says Reboh. “But they don’t even know how to start properly treating their hair. Here, we have a method, a concept, and we prioritize the quality of the hair with actual treatment.”
They also proudly display products, taking the stigma out of selling. Products are displayed on cleverly concealed lit casings in the walls of the main room, directly acquainting guests with the boutique and without feeling like an obnoxious sales tactic.
“The right product yields the right results,” says Reboh. “It’s a matter of educating the client as to what they really need. Sometimes a stylist will tell a client that they have dry ends, and give them a product for that, ignoring the fact that the client also has an oily scalp. Then they wonder why the product doesn’t work. When clients see results, they get attached.”
The out-of-the-way room is the perfect destination for an in-depth consultation and treatment, offering comfort and most importantly, privacy. In all, the design—with its clean lines and all-white concept—is strategically conceived to create a soothing environment with the illusion of space. Full-length windows in the façade also provide great natural lighting.
“Everything about the design of this salon conveys the professionalism of the service,” says Lanvain designer Sylvain Émond. “From the moment you walk in, you immediately know you’re in for a one-on-one, thorough hair consultation. It’s a concept perfectly adapted to modern day needs, where clients require excellent customer service.”
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