Project Narrative
Located on the rapidly developing outskirts of Rajkot, this salon is a refreshing take on how cost-effective design can be both soulful and striking. Having worked with the client for over a decade, the design team was given a simple brief- to create an aesthetically appealing, budget-conscious salon that feels unique and evolves every few years. What emerged from this freedom and trust is a space that celebrates the beauty of local materials, craftsmanship, and imperfection.
The concept revolved around creating a distinctly earthy and nature-inspired ambience, using materials that are easily available, affordable, and rooted in vernacular tradition. Terracotta became the heart of the design language- explored in multiple forms such as rooftop tiles, floor tiles, and pots of varying scales. These humble, tactile elements were reinterpreted to create a warm, grounded atmosphere while maintaining a contemporary sensibility. Complementing the terracotta tones, in-situ terrazzo was innovatively used for tabletops, steps, and surfaces, lending the space a handcrafted charm that feels bespoke yet budget-friendly.
The salon layout was thoughtfully divided into male and female sections, maintaining visual cohesion through material continuity and balanced lighting. At the center, the reception table stands as a sculptural highlight- a cylindrical terracotta base topped with a terrazzo counter. Positioned strategically at the entry, this piece embodies the studio’s approach to blending artistry with functionality, rustic warmth with modern refinement.
The staircase continues this design ethos, constructed in concrete but elevated with delicate metal detailing that makes the steps appear to float, softening their mass and lending lightness to the overall structure. Every element in the space- from the textures to the transitions- reflects the studio’s belief in celebrating hand-finished imperfections as part of the design narrative.
Adding a touch of storytelling, the design team introduced a series of handcrafted terracotta plates on the ceiling, each etched with expressive faces symbolizing diverse salon stories and personalities. This subtle, poetic layer brings art, emotion, and identity into the interiors, making the space not just functional but deeply personal.
In its totality, the project is a tribute to material honesty and local craftsmanship- a space where simplicity meets imagination. Earthy yet experimental, modest yet memorable, this salon transforms everyday functionality into an experience of texture, warmth, and timeless charm.
The concept revolved around creating a distinctly earthy and nature-inspired ambience, using materials that are easily available, affordable, and rooted in vernacular tradition. Terracotta became the heart of the design language- explored in multiple forms such as rooftop tiles, floor tiles, and pots of varying scales. These humble, tactile elements were reinterpreted to create a warm, grounded atmosphere while maintaining a contemporary sensibility. Complementing the terracotta tones, in-situ terrazzo was innovatively used for tabletops, steps, and surfaces, lending the space a handcrafted charm that feels bespoke yet budget-friendly.
The salon layout was thoughtfully divided into male and female sections, maintaining visual cohesion through material continuity and balanced lighting. At the center, the reception table stands as a sculptural highlight- a cylindrical terracotta base topped with a terrazzo counter. Positioned strategically at the entry, this piece embodies the studio’s approach to blending artistry with functionality, rustic warmth with modern refinement.
The staircase continues this design ethos, constructed in concrete but elevated with delicate metal detailing that makes the steps appear to float, softening their mass and lending lightness to the overall structure. Every element in the space- from the textures to the transitions- reflects the studio’s belief in celebrating hand-finished imperfections as part of the design narrative.
Adding a touch of storytelling, the design team introduced a series of handcrafted terracotta plates on the ceiling, each etched with expressive faces symbolizing diverse salon stories and personalities. This subtle, poetic layer brings art, emotion, and identity into the interiors, making the space not just functional but deeply personal.
In its totality, the project is a tribute to material honesty and local craftsmanship- a space where simplicity meets imagination. Earthy yet experimental, modest yet memorable, this salon transforms everyday functionality into an experience of texture, warmth, and timeless charm.
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