Osaka-based practice Sides Core has recently completed Flux, a minimal hair salon near Kyoto station, located on the 2nd floor of a former car showroom. The existing space included floor-to-ceiling curved windows that open onto the main road on the south side, while the north side looks out onto a terrace with a car lift.
With Flux, Sides Core wanted to create an airy space, fitting of the name, that breezes can easily flow through. Flux’s main cutting mirror is suspended from the ceiling and features mirrors on all sides, effectively avoiding a vanity-like feel. “We designed a mirror that emphasizes the reflected image brings the space together, rather than just being an object in the space,” says the studio.
The space is designed to show a different perspective and different settings as you progress deeper into it. In contrast to the stark information area, the main hair cutting area on the south side is relaxing, facing the terrace. The box-shaped shampoo area in the center gently divides the entire space. An open book-shaped mirror provides two client seats on the outside, and one on the inside with a double-paned mirror. It hangs from the ceiling, and mirrored surfaces on all sides easily blend into the space.
“We limited the height of both the mirror and partitions to 1500 mm so the sight line would flow throughout,” explains the design team. “Stylists have an undisturbed view of the entire space.”
The south side of the salon is a bright and open curved space that faces the street. There are just two client chairs to give the space a relaxed feel — spend some time here. Curtains regulate both light and how much people outside can see in.
The owner chose the name “FLUX” — they wanted the salon to be like a stage for skilled staff to give their performances, a space that flows and never stands still. The cutting area on the north side represents this concept and is also a counseling and final styling space with an elevated feel.
