Higher Education

 

VIM AND VIGOR SALON

 

Education is the backbone of San Francisco's new Vim and Vigor Salon, located in the city's trendy SoMa neighborhood. Founded by Gregory Murray and Peter Popejevalo, Vim and Vigor offers an in-house training system that features measurable benchmarks for the success and advancement of the salon staff.


 

"When you educate employees with commitment and enthusiasm, you are setting yourself up for success," Murray says. Vim and Vigor's separate Color Education Program and Cutting Education Program are built around mentorship for new stylists and colorists, who are trained in technique, consultation and customer service for the men's and women's haircuts, color and thermal straightening services offered at the salon.

The 2,000-square-foot space, designed by award-winning architect Stanley Saitowitz, is equally impressive. Custom-designed black wood chairs at the cutting stations, flat-screen TVs broadcasting fashion shows, black concrete floors and violet lighting create a clubby and cool atmosphere, while the salon's walls feature a design that mimics strands of hair.

"Our team has amazing experience and a cohesive attitude that's rare in the salon industry," Murray says. "I can't wait for our clients to experience what a difference this approach makes." —L.A.