the M salon

The driving factor for the concept used in designing the ceiling tiles was the need to achieve adequate light levels for the interior space, and at the same time provide a diffused uniform soft light with softened shadows. In the same way, that clouds block the sunlight on a cloudy day, a translucent barrier could reduce the harshness of the light emitted from the light fixtures above the ceiling. To achieve this effect, a certain type of resin with a suitable level of opacity was selected. The conventional ceiling tiles used widely in commercial spaces are installed on an orthogonal grid that creates a boring rigidity and monotony. To prevent this, the organic pattern of cloud patches was implemented in shaping the tiles. Using digital simulation the pieces were prepared for fabrication and laser cutting. The connection detail was uniquely designed to attach and hold three tile corners. The result was a ceiling that not only served the purpose of a light diffuser but also an art installation, that helped create an identity for the salon. The concept can be further developed by adding motion in the vertical direction. The rigid connections can easily be replaced by a flexible material and attached to motors that would raise or lower the joints which would act as control nodes; Thus allowing a smooth subtle movement that could be synchronized with any rhythm through a digital controller.The total 550-sf area was to be designed quite economically to accommodate as many workstations as possible, while maintaining privacy and comfort for stylists and their clients. The most common layout is to place stations on the periphery, which would compromise privacy. The approach here was to divide the whole space into two major zones, the separating line being the service areas: the reception desk, the coffee bar, and the shampoo stations. In each major zone, four stations are placed, each being separated by back to back standing mirrors. In most beauty salons the accessory tray is a major organizational hassle. Usually, the accessories are either stored in a storage away from the station requiring the stylists to spend a lot of time fetching their tools, or they are placed on individual mobile trays that clutter the space. The cabinets designed for this salon offer two major features. They provide storage on the top with an expandable working surface in the middle. Also, there is a movable cart that is detachable from the built-in cabinet and can be parked back in after the stylist no longer needs them. The cart has five drawers and the top piece is meant to serve as product holder as well as an additional work surface.