Touch Salon was a prototype for a new “aspirational” nail salon concept with a distinctive brand image focusing on a bold, sexy, minimalist interior. Services included the development of the brand, interiors, finishes, lighting, layout, millwork standards, and a full prototype manual to replicate the concept at future locations.
The materials selected: wood, upholstery, tile, and resin panels, as well as carefully placed indirect and decorative lighting, were chosen to exude a feeling of modern and hip comfort while indulging all senses.
The space was defined by the following elemental zones:
The manicure bar: As the main brand image, the manicure bar is a ribbon of wood veneer. It folds through the space starting as reception desk, across as manicure counter, up and over as lighting soffit, and out as signage and brand identifier, bringing the interior space out to the public street.
The pedicure niche: An upholstered pocket of space behind a tile ribbon, where the guests feel protected and relaxed.
Retail space: The “Touch zone” where testing stations encourage retail purchases, and the waiting bench cantilevers from a storefront light wall.
Waxing rooms: Off a private corridor, the wax rooms are sparse and minimal with indirect lighting for customer comfort.
The project was awarded with an AIA Chicago Honor Award for Interior Architecture, the highest award in the category.