A Scandi Desert Chic-style hair salon: Victoria James Hairdressing

Is it possible to combine Scandinavian minimalism with the warmth of boho style in a single hair salon? Victoria James Hairdressing in Hamilton, New Zealand, proves that it is, blending Scandi minimalism with the vibe of 1970s desert boho. A palette of earthy tones plays a key role here, as does the salon’s furnishings, which have been selected to match a specific, recognisable style. For the salon owner, this brings a tangible benefit: an interior that customers promote themselves on social media, generating footfall without the need for an additional advertising budget.

How the Scandi Desert Chic-style hairdressing salon came to be

As you step into Victoria James Hairdressing in Hamilton, you’re immediately immersed in a ‘Desert Chic’ atmosphere inspired by the 1970s. Victoria James decided to combine her favourite interior design styles: a minimalist Scandinavian look, a 1970s boho vibe, and a colour palette inspired by the earthy warmth of the desert. Upon entering the salon, customers are immediately struck by the arched forms, which are also reflected in the hairdressing furniture, in rustic, natural shades that contrast with the white.

Every detail has been personally selected and designed by Victoria. Particularly noteworthy are the bespoke LED lighting integrated into the product display area, the white linen sofa in the waiting area, and the arrangement of dried flowers near the ceiling, designed by Chloe Le Fleur, which serves as the main visual feature of the entire showroom.

Hairdressing furniture to suit a specific interior style

The signature Comfortel collection in tan, comprising the Chloe hairdressing chairs and the Hazel wash unit, brings a natural feel and texture to the salon’s interior. The rattan footrests by the wash unit add an extra, personal touch, blending visually with the dried-flower arrangement. In this case, the hairdressing chairs have been paired with matt white bases, which enhances the Scandinavian feel of the interior. A matching white footrest at the styling station completes this effect.

„I chose Comfortel as my supplier because they have a wide range of unique hairdressing furniture. I changed my mind several times about which pieces to choose, and they were helpful every single time, so I knew they’d be a good long-term partner. Ever since the salon opened, the support I’ve received has been incredible” – says Victoria James.

Choosing hairdressing salon furniture in this way has a tangible impact on the business: a cohesive collection in a single shade allows you to change details (such as the colour of the base or footrests) with ease, without compromising the uniform look of the entire salon.

The style of the showroom as a business argument

Since introducing the salon’s new look, Victoria James has been inundated with messages of support from customers telling her just how luxurious the salon looks.

„The lounge design has proved to be brilliant for business. With every little detail we offer – from the cocktails on the drinks menu to the variety of snacks – we’re getting new mentions on social media from satisfied customers enjoying their relaxation sessions with us. It’s an amazing and uplifting feeling,” adds Victoria.

How to recreate the Scandi Desert Chic style in your living room

The Victoria James Hairdressing project shows that the Scandi Desert Chic style can be implemented in any salon, provided you stick to a few rules when choosing hairdressing salon furnishings:

• The Scandi Desert Chic style is a variation on the bohemian style, but with less vibrant colours, a minimalist „less is more” approach and an added emphasis on earthy details.
• Choose colours such as caramel, terracotta, rust and clay, combining them with lighter shades of sand, taupe and beige. Powder pink goes well with a desert colour palette, just as you see pink gradients in desert landscapes in nature. Add white for contrast, so that each element has its own distinct purpose.
• When choosing hairdressing furniture, opt for natural textures such as wood, rattan and upholstery in earthy shades. Avoid black, glossy finishes and dark accents.
• A desert-chic interior isn’t complete without a touch of greenery. Use desert plants, such as cacti, combined with other succulents, and if greenery isn’t your style, opt for dried flower arrangements combining powder pink, dried ferns and pampas grass.

Plan your living room furnishings with Comfortel

Are you planning a Scandi Desert Chic-style hairdressing salon or another design based on an earthy, natural colour palette? Get in touch with the Comfortel team to select fittings that suit the size of your premises, your budget and your chosen interior style. We’ll help you plan your chairs, washing stations and accessories so that they enhance the unique character of your salon.

Products featured in the article:

• Chloe hairdressing chair (Tan)
• Hazel (Tan) Hairdressing Wash Unit
• Tan Ottoman Footstool

Showroom details Salon: Victoria James Hairdressing Address: 699 Wairere Dr, Chartwell, Hamilton 3210, New Zealand Website: victoriajameshairdressing.co.nz Instagram: @victoriajameshairdressing Owner: Victoria James Furniture: Comfortel Furniture Dried flower installation: Chloe Le Fleur, @chloelefleur Lighting: Mr Ralph Photographer: Ash Muir Photography