Have you ever wondered what the very first big step is when you want to open a successful beauty salon? It’s not the renovations, the logo, or even the list of services — those details become important a little later. The true “key to unlocking the door” is choosing the right location and finding a suitable space. This decision impacts everything: how many people pass by your salon, how easy it is for them to get there, and the first impression you make even before your first client walks through the door.
Customer flow, visibility, and competition – can your clients find you?
Imagine offering the world’s best manicure. But if your potential client doesn’t even know your salon exists in the neighborhood, those perfectly polished nails might remain just a dream… Location matters! Take a moment to think about your ideal client. Maybe it’s a busy professional rushing from work, a young mom with a stroller, or a student catching up with friends over coffee in the city center. Each of them moves through different places.
Some locations act like magnetic billboards. Large glass storefronts on a busy main street, the ground floor of a business center, or the bustle of a shopping mall draw both eyes and feet. Other times, a small spot in a residential block in the heart of a busy neighborhood might be the perfect “local salon,” especially if there isn’t much competition nearby. Have you also considered that quick-stop salons perfectly suit business districts or near train stations, offering “in-and-out” services? These spots often attract new clients fast.
But visibility alone isn’t always enough. Take an honest look at how many beauty salons are already operating in the area. Which ones are thriving? What makes them stand out? This calls for a bit of detective work: do they target men or women more? Are their prices high-end or budget-friendly? If you notice that natural product salons or quick “lounge-style” lunch manicures are missing nearby, that might be your opportunity!
If you want more inspiration on how to make your future salon stand out, check out the recommendations in the article Successful Strategies to Make Your Salon Shine.
Need some food for thought?
- What is one thing your future neighbors currently don’t offer?
- Could you provide something especially valuable to clients in this area?
Parking and accessibility – will clients want to visit?
Parking spots may seem like a minor detail at first, but in reality, the lack of convenient parking can push half your potential clientele to a nearby competitor. If your client arrives by car (especially in suburban or smaller towns), is it easy for them to park right in front of your salon, or do they have to hunt for a spot? Shopping malls often solve that problem, but in historic downtown buildings, parking spaces can be rarer than an available appointment with your hairstylist.
Don’t forget public transportation, either! A nearby tram or bus stop makes you accessible to those without cars or who don’t want to search for parking in winter. At minimum, there should be at least one parking spot for staff and some for clients. If you’re considering space in an apartment building, be sure to ask the homeowners’ association or landlord about parking arrangements — it can turn into an unpleasant surprise later!
Rent or buy? Finding the right space and lease tips
Should you rent a space or boldly invest in “your own nest” from the start? Renting is often a more flexible option for new salons: you can test whether the location and clientele work for you and adjust your approach if needed. When reviewing a lease, be sure to clarify:
- Who pays utilities — are they included in the rent or added monthly?
- How large is the security deposit and how many months must you pay upfront?
- How quickly can you terminate the lease if necessary?
- Who is responsible for repairs and maintenance?
If you feel the location is ideal and you’re financially ready, buying property can be worthwhile long-term — the business value grows, and costs become more predictable. However, this also means a larger initial investment, more responsibility, and possibly contributing to a repair fund or coordinating with co-owners. Don’t hesitate to seek help from a lawyer or real estate agent!
If you’re starting your salon journey, we highly recommend checking out the comprehensive guide on the costs of opening a salon to avoid unexpected budget surprises.
Layout and design – how to truly make the space your own?
On paper, a space always feels twice as big and life seems easier. Even sketching a simple floor plan helps: where will the reception desk go? Where can clients wait comfortably? Is there a private corner for staff breaks? Will the manicure room fit snugly with its small window in the back? Think through:
- How can clients move without squeezing through narrow corridors or wandering into staff-only areas?
- Is the restroom easy to find? Is the salon wheelchair accessible?
- Does each service area offer a bit of privacy — especially if your salon offers a range of treatments?
Remember, your salon’s first impression and work comfort depend largely on the space. Clients value cleanliness and functionality, while staff need quiet moments and proper ventilation. A more open layout or well-planned traffic flow can positively impact the whole day’s rhythm.
If you’re looking for inspiration on efficient layouts and salon ergonomics, be sure to read top tips for beauty salon layout.
The floor plan also affects whether your daily operations run smoothly. Ideally, clients flow from the waiting area to the treatment stations and then to the checkout without confusion. And that brings us to the next topic…
Next up: once you’ve found the right location and space, how do you make them “tell” your salon’s unique story? Do you know how to create a personalized style with interior design and overall atmosphere? We’ll cover that in the next article, focusing on crafting an environment that makes every client want to come back! See you at the next step in your salon journey!
