Nicknamed “Furniture City” for its major lumbering center, it’s no surprise Grand Rapids, MI salons boast ravishing interior design, like these three standouts. ✂ —Desiree Cole
Brindle and Blonde
Brindle and Blonde, which opened its doors in 2013, has all the benefits of a downtown salon, yet it’s located in a quaint neighborhood two blocks from the center of the city. All eight staff members work behind the chair, including the two salon owners and the manager. Recently, the 2,500-square-foot modern yet comfortable salon expanded its color bar and even beefed up the coffee bar for guests. “Our typical client is experiencing a lot of firsts; first career, first house, getting married, having their first child,” says Molly Savage, Brindle and Blonde’s manager. “We love being able to watch clients establish a life that is uniquely their own, including the way they style themselves.”
In stock: Davines, Oribe
Pure Salon
Pure Salon opened its doors in 2007, and offers haircuts, color, facial waxing, extensions, smoothing treatments, and nail and makeup services. Located in downtown Grand Rapids, the salon is owned by Nathan and Jackie Messelink, who say the staff puts exceptional cut and color services first to retain the salon’s authenticity. Inside the 2,000-square-foot space, the high ceiling, exposed beams, cement floors and white walls create a modern, chic aesthetic. “We love when clients say, ‘I want something new,’ and completely entrust their look into our hands,” says Jackie Messelink. “It’s a pinnacle moment to push our craft.” The salon plans to continue developing its assistant program, where cosmetology graduates can bloom. “We love to nurture and grow the next generation of creatives.”
In stock: American Crew, CND, Keratin Complex, Moroccanoil, TIGI
Rubies Salon
Perched in the East Hills neighborhood, between the historical district and East Grand Rapids, is Rubies Salon. Young professionals and families visit the beauty establishment for haircuts, color, custom facials and facial hair removal services. MariJo Yared, salon owner, opened the doors in 2009 and created an eclectic aesthetic with vintage and modern flair and warm tones. Rubies Salon employs five stylists, who man chairs that double as makeup stations, as well as one esthetician. The 1,200-square-foot space features a private color bar, shampoo room and spa room. While keeping every guest’s salon experience their priority, Salon Manager Elliot Yared says, “If our guests need an extra 15 minutes to feel more confident about how to style their hair, we give them 20.”
In stock: All-Nutrient, Dermalogica