In Full Bloom

The natural light and clean, glamorous design of Erik Hendrick and Nina Ladd's Lotus Salon in Atlanta makes for perfect color and an always-increasing clientele list.

Passersby in the Buckhead area of Atlanta can’t help but notice Lotus Salon—with its unique, curved architecture and expansive windows, people can see right in. And once people are drawn in by the unique shape and glamorous interior of the salon, those same windows provide superb natural light for colorists to create the sun-kissed, balayage and ombre color effects that have been color mainstays the past few years.

Yet in that design was a challenge for Lotus owners Erik Hendrick and Nina Ladd: How do you keep a space intimate when everyone could see in? High ceilings with interesting details, pops of color and cool gray washes ensure the space is welcoming to those outside as well as in.

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As you enter the dramatic foyer, you are greeted by a platinum-covered, curved check-in desk that is reminiscent of a quilted Chanel purse and is both inviting and glamorous. The sparkling crystal chandelier sets the tone for this glamorous salon and hangs from a curved dome.

A 15-foot beverage bar provides clients with a well-stocked mini-bar of soft drinks and water. Add a coffee bar and magazines of every description and clients feel at home, relaxing and enjoying the well-needed beauty break.

“We feel the most exciting design feature is the natural light which is quite unique in a salon atmosphere,” Hendrick and Ladd say.

“Most salons have a storefront window, but few have an entire frontage that is curved and light-filled by natural sunlight. The windows embrace the frontage of the building and wrap from side to side. The light allows us and our team of stylists the ability to do true color. When you color hair in natural light, you have the ability to assess and create the right color that is exactly what you want to achieve.”

Every inch of the salon was intentional from the entrance where professionals greet each client, check them in and welcome them. Orchids and accent colors are another source of bright energy in the salon.

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