2 mins
Through the Keyhole
Take a peek inside salon setups across the UK&I as Scratch unlocks each door
The Apothecary Room
Location: Halifax, West Yorkshire
April Kitson has transformed a plain, grey office space into a sultry, maximalist nail studio, carefully curated with curiosities, oddities and antiques. Keen to create a ‘dark academia’ aesthetic in her salon, she unveils: “My personal style is heavily influenced by Stevie Nicks and Morticia Addams, so I used vintage and thrifted elements to create a gothic, bohemian setting.”
April opened the doors to The Apothecary Room in December 2023, and offers gel enhancements using Cuccio products and Nail Order’s Xtensions range, finished with Famous Names’ Dadi’ line to hydrate. “I welcome clients by appointment only, so the salon is quiet with a chilled vibe for my clients and I to enjoy,” she details. “This setup also allows me to have flexible opening hours, which means I can work around my commitments as a mum.
“I wanted to attract like-minded clients who appreciate and resonate with my style, because my décor is a reflection of who I am.
I love having the ability to create a unique atmosphere that reflects my interests, and it’s so fulfilling to see clients enjoying the space,” April smiles. “The biggest display piece in the salon is an antique Moroccan tapestry handed down to my mum from her grandparents, which we estimate to be around 150 years old.
“The studio is designed to be homely and cocooning, and invites clients to relax for a few hours while their nails are transformed into works of art.”
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Reverie Beauty Room
Location: Ryde, Isle of Wight
Reverie Beauty Room is a light and airy space inside Rebecca Evans’ home on the Isle of Wight. The calming, neutral colour scheme is accessorised with pops of colour via wall art and soft furnishings. “I wanted to create an environment that doesn’t feel clinical, with a cosy and welcoming atmosphere,” Rebecca details. “My favourite aspect is the desk area, as it allows me to overlook the garden. I love the freedom that having a home salon brings and how wonderfully it works around my family life.”
Previously a space for utilities, Reverie Beauty Room’s transformation was completed at the end of 2021, and has a separate toilet and entrance for clients. The venue is within short walking distance from the beach, and the seaside is reflected in the aesthetic of Rebecca’s marketing materials and social media accounts. “Many of my clients walk along the seafront after their mani or pedi,” she shares. “There are a lot of busy salons in my local area, but I offer a relaxing space with a one-to-one experience where I can give clients my full attention.”
The nail pro, who entered the industry in 2018, offers gel, builder gel and pedicure services, with the option of detailed nail art. “I use The GelBottle Inc and Hayley Winder gel polishes and Navy Professional for hygiene products,” she shares. “In the future, I’d love to build a garden chalet with a larger space for treatments. My end goal is to set up my own training academy.”