Natural Habitat
With nature as its largest inspiration, a new Chicago salon and spa provides a busy city with a place of rest and renewal.
Photography: Carasco photography
Urban energy and small boutiques rule the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago, and president of Aveda Canada Ray Civello knew the creative niche would be a perfect fit for his salon: Civello Salon & Spa.The 2,800-square-foot salon, which opened in October 2014, boasts a calm, aroma-infused retail area, which Civello says is the anchor of the space. Large glass windows line the street-facing side of the Aveda Concept Salon, allowing a flood of natural light. Inside, an airy palette of grays, warm tans and soft whites gently collide with light-colored wood accents for texture and depth. Eco-certified porcelain tile and hardwood floors; walls made of individually selected wood slabs; and custom-made furniture, including fixtures, countertops and shelves, give a unique vibe. “This location is really an intimate space with clean lines that guide the eye to various stations,” says Civello about his salon that houses 10 styling and color chairs, four washbowls, two dryers and three spa rooms. The space formerly housed another salon, so it was easy to expand the structure, Civello says.
Along with cut, color and styling options, each service includes an add-on Aveda Sensory Ritual. Clients can choose from a stress-relieving scalp and shoulders ritual, a customized skincare ritual or a three- to 
five-minute makeup ritual, to name a few. “We wanted to create an atmosphere dedicated to total urban renewal,” Civello says.
The team is continually urged to grow and seek education, Civello says. Currently, he offers in-depth learning programs to all employees, such as the Civello Associate Training Program, a two-week boot camp introduction to the salon industry that helps new associates fine-tune cutting and coloring techniques. After completing the program, stylists move on to the Young Talent Salon, then join the Civello team, where continued education programs are offered. “We want that personal touch that keeps clients coming back for more,” Civello says.✂ —Desiree Cole