12th May 2016

This week, we had a chat to Aaron Stevens from Aaron Stevens Architects about his recent revamp of the iconic Sydney hair salon, Barney Martin Hair.


Can you tell us a bit about the brief you received from Barney Martin?

Barney Martin Hair is an industry leading salon located in Sydney Surry Hills. The brief for the salon was to create a stand apart fit out that created a modern elegant solution within an existing terrace. We were to retain the character of the existing building while creating internal spaces that would enable hair stylists and colourists alike to continue to be the best in the field.


What are your favourite details of the design?

The lighting was one of the most important elements of the design. In many salons you see the focus on soft mood lighting, a dark ambience, or the other extreme, they are lit up with fluorescents casting a clinical coolness over the whole space.

One of our favourite details is the lighting. After much research, we selected the Brightgreen range of Tru-Colour lights. We now have a salon that is well lit, warm and inviting, while also offering true lighting conditions for colourists and stylists alike.

What are the key considerations when designing a hair salon?

We believe that one of the key considerations when designing a salon is often the one that is most missed. True lighting. At this level stylists are artists, they need to accurately see their work, lighting conditions are essential.


How did you go about choosing the lights for the space?

Hours of research. Then we discovered Brightgreen. We cancelled all previous specifications and changed the entire lighting design to Brightgreen lights. We love the company philosophy, the design, the quality.

Do you think clients will notice the Tru-Colour difference?

We have the feedback to prove it. Yes, it has been noticed and embraced.

Do you have any tips for people who are choosing lights for their homes?

Not all lights are equal. See the lights in person, look at the build and light quality before deciding.

Are there any lighting trends we should be on the lookout for?

With the products that I see in your range and those coming soon, I can see that you are already over it.

We'd like to thank Aaron for his very complimentary words. We promise he's not on our payroll! Also, special thanks to the team at Barney Martin Hair for allowing us to share their beautiful space with our readers.

Check out the T900 H Curve that was used in this project here.

Also, stay tuned for the newest addition to the Surface Series arriving next week!