MENU
SEARCHWhen our sister publication, Salon Today, announced the winners of its 2016 Salon of the Year competition earlier this year, we had just one request: Show us the nail areas!
When our sister publication, Salon Today, announced the winners of its 2016 Salon of the Year competition earlier this year, we had just one request: Show us the nail areas! Here’s some of the stand-out decor we spotted among the 20 finalist salons.
8, Willemstad, Curacao (Grand Prize Winner)
Mani/pedi area: 388 sq. ft. (2 mani +2 pedi stations)
Owner Kimberly de Freitas says: “An open floorplan and extra-large windows greet our guests as they enter the nail and hair studio. Each of our nail stations is strategically positioned to optimize expansive views of the Caribbean Sea, allowing our guests to enter a deeper state of relaxation. A neutral color palette has been used in this space to exploit views of Curacao as the wallpaper.”
NAAVA Salon and Spa, Austin, Texas (2nd Runner Up)
Mani/pedi area: 600 sq. ft. (12 mani/pedi stations)
Owners Steven and Joshua Chodniewicz say: “If you are receiving a nail service, you will be directed to a quiet 600-sq.- ft. manicure and pedicure area where your hands and toes can receive the best treatments possible. With 12 stations in total, this area is perfect for individual needs or is a wonderful gathering space for bridal parties and larger events.”
Don Angelos, Bay City, Mich. (3rd Runner Up)
Mani/pedi area: 143 sq. ft. (3 mani/pedi stations)
Owners Angelo and Donovan Ortega say: “We offer a jet-free, eco-friendly pedicure lounger that uses 50% less water and is safer for the client and better for the environment. Our custom lounger features larger armrests so you can have your manicure and pedicure done in half the time as you lay and relax.”
Namasté Salon & Spa, Wheaton, Ill. (Salon of Distinction)
Mani/pedi area: 400 sq. ft. (4 mani + 3 pedi stations)
Owner Karin Millonzi says: “VIP salon and spa clients are escorted upstairs, past our two-story waterfall feature designed specifically for this space, providing soothing ambient noise throughout the salon. Upstairs is a three-chair, four-table nail salon. The design includes dimmer lighting and soothing elements.”
Adam Broderick Salon & Spa, Ridgefield, Conn. (Salon of Distinction)
Mani/pedi area: 500 sq. ft. (8 mani + 4 pedi stations)
Owner Adam Broderick says: “Our first floor is home to the ab nail bar where cozy pedicure benches and the unique semi-circular nail bar are perfect for enjoying a manicure with a friend. At the bar clients can enjoy services such as manicures, product demonstrations, or a meeting with a personal shopper.”
David Ezra, Wayne, N.J. (Salon of Distinction)
Mani/pedi area: 1,000 sq. ft. (9 mani/pedi stations)
Owners David and Julie Ezra say: “As well as accommodating all hair needs, we have an extensive full-service nail section. All of the nail technicians are well rounded and educated in all the latest techniques. Guests are enticed by the luxurious pedicure and manicure stations.”
Zolton’s Salon and Spa, Scottsdale, Ariz. (Salon of Distinction)
Mani/pedi area: 600 sq. ft. (2 mani/pedi stations)
Owners Robert and Margaret Quinn say: “We offer VIP manicures and pedicures in a modern chic environment. The nail area offers complete privacy and relaxation to our customers, despite being part of a 5,000-sq.-ft. facility.”
Square data shows that regular customers tip 11% higher and are shared across 32% of businesses in the same ZIP code, driving thousands of dollars in additional revenue per connection.
When Bowie Lau and Jeffrey Ching opened JBW Jeffrey Ching Salon in 2011, they weren’t just launching another luxury hair destination—they were building a business rooted in passion, artistry, and thoughtful growth.
Sponsored by Amex
Inside the Systems That Power an Elevated Salon Experience From seamless online booking to a team-first culture, J Gold Salon in Atlanta offers more than great hair—it delivers consistent, high-touch service with the help of partners like Boulevard and American Express.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to grow your career as a beauty professional? K18 Sales Manager Sabrina Sanborn shares advice on networking, mentorship, and self-advocacy—from attending hair shows to finding the right guidance to reach your goals.
A combination of clear policies, effective communication, and strong client relationships has helped me create a more reliable and efficient booking system.
Founded by Cleveland serial entrepreneur Shaura Rodgers, Nailtorious has grown to include a nail supply megastore, training facilities, and retail line for nail techs.
This period after the holidays can bring on a huge lull for hairstylists. We asked Cosmo Prof's team of professionals to offer their best advice on how to deal with the January-February slow period.
Key highlights include a push toward inclusive spaces for all abilities, an emphasis on maximizing livable square footage, and a continued love for modern farmhouse exteriors.
The busy holiday season is here, and with it comes jam-packed days, last-minute client requests and booming retail sales. For many salon owners, the highlight of the season is Small Business Saturday® (SBS). This year on Saturday, November 30, consumers can take their shopping into the small businesses in their communities.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to become savvy about your personal finances, but don't quite know where to start? Anna Manukyan identifies six important concepts for building a strong financial foundation.
Salon owner Nuri Yurt had a dream of owning a salon on New York City’s Madison Avenue. "Through perseverance, hard work and stellar customer service, he and partner John Kaygisiz founded Toka Salon in 2007.
Sponsored by Amex
This guide is your one-stop shop for a plethora of technology tools, software and services created to keep your salon or spa thriving.
Anna Manukyan shares a breakdown of what different types of financial accounts should be used for.
Vagaro has consistently been at the forefront of salon software technology, helping businesses be more efficient, create more effective communication, and even improve company culture. Now, Connect by Vagaro, the platform’s two-way communication capability, and Vagaro’s new generative AI tools are giving owners new opportunities to grow and expand.
Sponsored by Vagaro
Young Nails' Greg, Habib, and Tracey discuss whether getting too close to clients can damage your business.
This list of watch-outs from @jodydoesjels prompted us to reach out to her and learn more. We had already fallen for her hand-painted designs and now we wanted to know more about this list she created to help clients decide if she was the nail tech for them.
Education is necessary for beauty professionals to maintain their cosmetology licenses, and paying for that education can be burdensome, but it doesn't have to be. Understand which education tax credits can help you offset those costs.
