El Barbero Salon draws its inspiration from the Spanish streetscape. The salon’s design is anchored in the principles of fluidity and openness, with curves and arches playing a central role in creating a sense of continuity throughout the space. This approach avoids the rigidity of straight lines, instead providing a welcoming and organic feel to the salon’s layout.
Project Name: El Barbero
Studio Name: Studio Admix
Project Location: Rajouri Garden, New Delhi
Completion Year: 2024
Status: Completed
Carpet Area: 650 square.ft
Photography:
With a timeline stretching from November to January, the project aimed to transform a previously cramped environment into an airy, spacious one, while maintaining the premium aesthetic required for its upscale location. The salon integrates light colours reminiscent of Spanish architecture while adding functional contrasts suited to the Indian market.
One of the key challenges in designing El Barbero was balancing the client’s vision of a Spanish-themed salon with the practical requirements of an Indian clientele. The design team addressed this by incorporating subtle contrasts in the colour scheme, ensuring the space remained visually appealing while being user-friendly. The use of curves and arches helped to maximise the sense of space, making the salon feel open and airy despite its compact layout.
Curves and arches guide clients through the space to enhance the feeling of spaciousness, from the reception area to the treatment rooms. The mani-pedi section, in particular, stands out with its large windows, offering an abundance of natural light and creating a serene environment for clients to relax.
The salon’s layout is designed to promote a smooth flow from one area to another, ensuring a seamless experience for clients. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a spacious reception area along with a cosy waiting area. The salon is divided into distinct zones for various services, including:
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©Rahul Sethi Barber Station & Shampoo Station: Both stations are visible from the entrance, offering a comprehensive view of the salon’s offerings.
- Manicure-Pedicure Section: Positioned in the right corner of the salon with large windows, this area is designed for relaxation, allowing clients to enjoy natural light while receiving services.
- Makeup Room & Treatment Rooms: Strategically placed at the left end of the salon, these rooms provide a private yet accessible space for facial treatments, waxing, and laser services.
The design language of El Barbero is defined by its use of custom-made furniture and bespoke lighting, sourced from local artisans. Each element is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the salon’s unique identity, from the Rattan lights imported from Bangalore to the custom-designed chairs and stations built by skilled carpenters. The intention behind the design was to create a space that feels both luxurious and user-friendly, ensuring comfort without compromising on style.
The colour palette balances soft, light tones with earthy contrasts, reflecting the salon’s Spanish-inspired theme while adapting to the local context. Darker shades are reserved for specific areas, such as the treatment rooms, where they contribute to the tranquil, spa-like ambience.
