Mediterranean-inspired luxury
Pelo by Lago owner Kirby Lago has created more than just a hair salon, she's crafted a Mediterranean-inspired luxury retreat that perfectly aligns with her vision of providing high-end colour services in a space that exudes sophistication and tranquillity.
What immediately strikes visitors to Pelo by Lago in Sydney, Australia is the cohesive design language that flows throughout the expansive two-level, 260-square-meter space. Every surface is thoughtfully covered in Venetian plaster, a tactile finish that adds depth and warmth while evoking the sun-drenched buildings of coastal Europe.
“I think the most important part of the design was to invoke a feeling of relaxation and to create that European feel,” Kirby explains. “Everything is oversized and grand, but there's space between things. There are layers of detail without anything being too noisy.”
The salon boasts an impressive indoor-outdoor flow with a cabana and terrace area at the back. Throughout the space, organic shapes dominate, from the rounded mirrors and lighting fixtures to the curved built-in styling stations that appear to emerge naturally from the walls.
Kirby's attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the design. The custom cognac-coloured salon chairs provide a warm contrast to the predominantly ivory palette, while unexpected elements like the distinctive zigzag brass handrail leading upstairs add visual interest and reinforce the bespoke nature of the space.
The carefully curated styling stations feature integrated mirrors with soft lighting, a design choice that prioritises both function and aesthetics. Large tropical plants in textured vessels bring life to the space, reinforcing the resort-like atmosphere Kirby aimed to create.
Perhaps most notable is how the space balances openness with intimacy. The white Venetian plaster creates a sense of airiness and light, while the thoughtful layout ensures that clients feel they're receiving a personalised experience.
For Kirby, the salon's design is inseparable from her business philosophy. “I'm a hundred percent the brand. I live and breathe the brand,” she says.
This commitment to cohesive branding extends to every element of the salon experience, from the distinctive water glasses served to clients to the carefully selected artwork.
The Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic perfectly complements Pelo by Lago's focus on hair health and luxury colour services. The salon's target demographic, sophisticated clients aged 25-40 who invest in themselves and appreciate quality experiences, feel immediately at home in this tranquil, elevated environment.
What makes Pelo by Lago truly special is how it transcends typical salon design. With its multi-level layout, custom architectural elements, and resort-like amenities, it offers clients a comprehensive escape from everyday life.
As Kirby explains, “My brand is about hair health, about longevity, about scalp health, and about a holistic approach to beautiful hair.” The salon's design perfectly embodies this philosophy, creating a space where beauty, wellness, and luxury converge.
For anyone looking to elevate their salon experience or seeking design inspiration for a commercial space, Pelo by Lago demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform a service business into a destination. This Sydney gem isn't just a place to get your hair done, it's a testament to how intentional design can enhance every aspect of the client experience.
Links:
Pelo by Lago
@pelobylago
Tune into podcast episode 288: Building a Luxury Salon Experience with Kirby Lago to hear Kirby talk about what it takes to build a Luxury salon whilst also growing a personal brand.
