SALONDESIGN

Salon Design Made Simple

Explore how to create a fabulous & functional nail space with maximalist & minimalist inspo – plus handy design tips

REBECCA HITCHON REPORTS

Salon designs by Salon + Sisters.

Designing a nail space offers an opportunity to apply your creativity in fun and fresh ways, creating an accessible and comfortable environment – not only for clients, but yourself. However, while you’re likely to have a dream design in mind, realities such as budget and space limitations can feel like barriers to your vision. But they don’t have to be – and this article proves why.

Scratch has sourced the insight of a salon design specialist, as well as Scratch Stars Nail Salon of the Year finalists for 2026, to show you that your ideal space is in reach – whatever your design preference, budget or space.

UNDERSTATED ELEGANCE

A trending salon aesthetic, minimalist and neutral interiors offer a sleek and relaxed vibe – but don’t forget to add unique touches to ensure a point of difference.

Hannah Egerton

“I will always stand by neutral tones: they’re timeless, calming and create an elevated base for any space,” says Hannah Egerton, owner of Salon + Sisters, interior design specialist for salons, clinics and wellness spaces. “The key is to keep main elements neutral, like walls, floors and fitted furniture, then add texture to prevent your space from feeling flat. From there, you can incorporate colourful accessories, which can easily be swapped as trends change. Salon owners often forget to add their personalities when following the neutral trend, so framed pictures of nail work and proud moments, as well as statement artwork, can be effective.”

Salon + Sisters offers three to four-hour ‘Style Sessions’ consultations, in addition to a design service providing floor plans, 3D visuals and a full building pack. Get in touch by emailing info@salonandsisters.co.uk, and send pictures and measurements of your space for a quote. www.salonandsisters.co.uk

The GelBottle Inc TGB SPA™ Display Tray £25 + VAT www.thegelbottle.com

CND™ Nail Desk Arm Rest £35 + VAT www.sweetsquared.com

Katie Barnes LED Flexible Desk Light (with Flat Base or Clamp & in Black or White) £129.99 inc VAT www.katiebarnesacademy.com

Hara Canto Light Oak With White Upstand Nail Station £450 + VAT www.astonandfincher.co.uk

SALON SPOTLIGHT: The Nail Group, London

Scratch Stars Nail Salon of the Year 2025 & finalist in 2023, 2024 and 2026 www.thenailgroup.co.uk

@thenailgroup

“Our intention was to create an environment that feels calm, elevated and welcoming, while being highly functional,” says Susan Nguyen, managing director of The Nail Group. “We wanted clients to instantly feel at ease, and reassured that they are in a professional, considered space.

Susan Nguyen

“We leaned into a soft, neutral colour palette and subtle textures to create a sense of calm and timelessness. Lighting plays a huge role in this, and we prioritised soft, ambient illumination for the overall atmosphere, alongside non-invasive, focused lights at each nail station.”

Susan continues: “We’re intentional about spacing and flow. Each area has a purpose, workstations are uncluttered and storage is discreet but accessible. There’s also a strong emphasis on cohesiveness via branding, colours, finishes and the way products are displayed.”

Susan’s top tips

• Design for your workflow. “Think about how you/your team operates, and build your layout around that.”

• Invest in lighting. “High-quality lighting is non-negotiable.”

• Avoid clutter. “Visual calm translates to a premium experience, so prioritise smart storage solutions.”

• Choose materials wisely. “Opt for finishes that can withstand daily use and are easy to clean.”

• Create cohesiveness. “Your space should reflect your brand at every touchpoint, via consistency in colour and styling.”

• Prioritise comfort. “Ergonomic seating, thoughtful spacing and a considered layout will not only improve the client experience, but the quality of nail work.”

‘ A well-designed space doesn’t just look beautiful: it allows everyone within it to perform and feel their best. ‘‘

Susan Nguyen

Juanita Huber-Millet

SALON SPOTLIGHT: Townhouse Covent Garden, London

Scratch Stars Nail Salon of the Year finalist 2026 www.townhouse.co.uk

@townhouse

“The vision for Townhouse was to create a space that sits closer to a luxury fashion or hospitality environment than a traditional nail salon,” explains Juanita Huber-Millet, founder & creative director of the nail salon brand & Scratch Stars finalist for the Services to the Nail Industry Award 2026. “This translated to a considered design approach, incorporating a neutral, tonal palette, clean lines and refined but durable materials. Every detail, from the layout of manicure tables to the placement of tools, is intended to feel seamless and uncluttered.

“Practicality is just as important as aesthetics, and a well-designed salon supports the flow of the client experience and a nail pro’s work. That means integrating storage discreetly, and ensuring there’s enough space to work comfortably. Lighting is also key; we focus on soft light for the overall space, paired with targeted lighting at each station.”

Juanita’s top tip

“Create an environment that feels beautiful and cohesive, but never at the expense of functionality.”

FURNITURE FOCUS “Don’t overspend on your client chairs, as they will get covered in gel polish, fake tan and dye from jeans,” shares Hannah Egerton. “Let your chairs follow the trends and be prepared to replace them every 12-18 months.”

SALON SPOTLIGHT: Tree Nail Spa, Buckinghamshire

Scratch Stars Nail Salon of the Year finalist 2026 www.thepeachmarlow.co.uk

@treenailspa1

Pham Thuy Nhung

“Our vision was to build a sanctuary where clients can step away from the outside world and feel instantly calm and cared for,” shares Pham Thuy Nhung, co-founder of Tree Nail Spa. “I was born in Vietnam and raised there until the age of 16, and carry a deep pride in my roots. That is reflected throughout the salon, which celebrates a philosophy of natural beauty.

“This is why we’ve leant towards an understated aesthetic. Most furniture is rustic and timeless, rather than overly ornate. From copper pedicure sinks and stone hand wash basins, to rattan pedi chairs and ceiling lights, every element has been carefully chosen to evoke warmth and calm. Large windows allow daylight to flood in, creating an airy environment that blends beautifully with greenery and earthy tones.”

Pham’s top tips

• Prioritise natural light. “It enhances both the client experience and precision of nail work.”

• Keep your layout intentional. “Ensure smooth flow for staff and clients.”

• Choose timeless over trendy. “This creates a lasting brand identity.”

• Create different zones. “Balance social areas with private spaces.”

The Manicure Company Gel Polish Wall Display Rack £44.38 + VAT www.themanicurecompany.com

Space-saving solutions

“Designing smaller spaces is about quality over quantity,” says Hannah Egerton. “There’s nothing worse than a space feeling overcrowded, as this has a negative impact on the client experience and affects how comfortably everyone can move around. Ensure there is an area to store clients’ coats and bags, and keep customer-facing spaces looking polished by having a cupboard for unglamorous essentials – such as your hoover, mop and extra stock.”

A moment for mobile

“The only space mobile techs truly have control over is the immediate working area,” says Clare Woodcock of The Nail Cub, Scratch Stars Ultimate Mobile Nailist.

Clare Woodcock

“Therefore, I create a look that fits with my brand aesthetic – from my table mats to tool case. “I am intentional about every detail: the look of my solution bottles, pedicure stools and even the box for my removal foils. My palette is nude-pink, black, grey and sage green. To ensure consistency and maintain professionalism, I add my logo and colour scheme to details like my extension cable and aftercare and gift cards.”

Offbeat Beauty Collective.

Beauty on a budget

“Tradespeople will always be your biggest cost, so it is crucial to prioritise the foundations of your space: flooring, lighting and ceiling,” explains Hannah Egerton. “Your flooring needs to withstand footfall, as well as spills and dirty shoes. Next, focus on storage. A lot of clients that come to us simply require proper storage and a declutter to transform their spaces.”

“Budget was a constraint for us, but I’m glad because it motivated more interesting design choices,” shares Lucy Byatt of Offbeat Beauty Collective, Scratch Stars Nail Salon of the Year finalist for 2026. “The pieces with the most character in our space cost the least, such as board detailing and repurposed finds. I also handmade as much as possible, including pompoms, which create a door curtain for the storeroom and hang from the ceiling.”

MERRY MAXIMALISM

If a bold and playful approach to salon styling is enticing, get creative with colour and standout accessories, while making sure to achieve balance and flow.

SALON SPOTLIGHT: Offbeat Beauty Collective, South Yorkshire

Scratch Stars Nail Salon of the Year finalist 2026 www.offbeatbeautyco.uk

@offbeat_beauty_collective

Lucy Byatt

“‘No pressure to look or dress a certain way to feel like you belong’ was the brief I gave myself for the interior of Offbeat Beauty Collective (OBC),” says its founder, Lucy Byatt. “OBC comprises independent therapists: all neurodivergent, most chronically ill, all passionate about natural nail health, sustainability and inclusivity – and the space had to reflect that.

“I originally trained as a graphic designer, and my style leans maximalist – or it did until I understood that autism and ADHD were why I’d spent years overwhelming myself with design elements. I wanted the salon to feel full of character, but pulled back from colour drenching in favour of pops of strong colour and a few pieces of bold artwork. White walls give these elements room to shine.

“OBC is on the ground floor of a 19th century pub, with the bones of the building: exposed industrial features, unusual proportions and a metal gantry on the ceiling, informing design choices. I was continually drawn to green and botanical print, as they feel grounded without being overly feminine, and work well with the hot pink client chairs. The pedi station is the focal point, featuring a deep green wall, leopard print chairs, a gold floor lamp and glass globe lights.”

Lucy’s top tips

• Work with your space, not against it. “Unusual features are assets if you treat them that way. The constraints of our pub encouraged more creative decisions than a blank canvas would have.”

• Use a floor plan tool before committing to anything. “I found that planning the layout digitally dramatically saved time and reduced costs and stress.”

• Find your colour story early and let it guide everything. “OBC’s colour story is green, hot pink and gold, with leopard print as the wildcard. Once I had those anchors, every decision became easier.”

• Think about lighting at different times. “Natural light and artificial light are completely different, so spend time in your space at different hours to help you understand what colour palette might work.”

• Design for the person who finds it hardest to be there. “Consider those who might visit you feeling anxious, overwhelmed or like they don’t fit. When your space works for them, it works beautifully for everyone else.”

Habitat X Margot Selby Janie Easy Fit Shade £20 inc VAT www.habitat.co.uk

NSI Hand Cushion in Pink £5.75 + VAT www.nsinails.co.uk

Dunelm Sophie Robinson Set of 2 Wavy Edge Trays £20 inc VAT www.dunelm.com

Glitterbels Elegance Nail Desk from £640 inc VAT www.glitterbels.com

KHAOS Nail Bar owners, Georgie, Jess & Niamh.

SALON SPOTLIGHT: KHAOS Nail Bar, Herefordshire

Scratch Stars Nail Salon of the Year finalist 2025 & 2026 @khaosnailbar

“We wanted to create a space where clients can feel completely themselves,” reveals Georgie Hughes, co-owner of KHAOS Nail Bar. “We sought to stand out as a salon, and with most of our clients going all out with nail art, we thought ‘why not match this with our décor?’. We were fixated on having a sequin sign on the outside of the salon, and a disco ball theme emerged from there. After we decided on our brand name, we thought it would be fitting to continue the theme of controlled chaos in our space, with bold colours, contrasting patterns and unique items that spark creativity.”

Georgie’s top tips

“Trust your gut when it comes to your salon design. Consider how you want your clients to feel before heading to Pinterest.”