Whether it's for basic grooming, weekly beautification, or the desire for complete indulgence, it is undeniable that salons and spas are considered essential to many. Anyone suffering from the aftermath of bad home haircuts or the stress from balancing a work-from-home/home-schooling lifestyle has been quite eager for the reopening of establishments providing services that can deliver touch-ups or the pampering that they have longed for over the past few months.
Personal care business doors are now reopening for customers, with a deviation from the typical experience that they are accustomed to. Yes, that is what is required to prevent the spread of illness, but is there a happy medium which supports the ability to comply with state mandated operating procedures and provide patrons with the ambiance and comfort that brings them back to a business time and time again? For those dealing with the inability to support high volume appointment requests or limited capacity, the time may have come to consider a more sustainable solution than what is currently in place.
Any hairdresser, manicurist, or aesthetician should seek to offer clients a comfortable and safe space that conforms to social distancing guidelines. In addition to masks, temperature checks, and limiting occupancy, there will be many additional changes required to limit the spread of germs. This includes waiting on lines, disposable capes or robes, no magazines or other materials that are often made available to those waiting or in between steps during coloring appointments or treatments.
In addition to those measures, a physical transformation may be necessary. A complete overhaul may not be feasible, but an addition can be a good middle-ground choice that can limit major construction that could interrupt business. More space equals a greater ability to accommodate demand. Long waits for services can potentially lead to a loss of business as customers search for alternate providers.
New structures can be designated as waiting areas in the present, but then be transformed into relaxation rooms or treatment sections down the road. Add some soft music and comfortable seating for a truly immersive space. A sunroom or another predominantly glass framework can be a wonderful area to take in nature with views to the outside, bask in the warmth of the sun, and populate with plants to create a zen-like atmosphere.
Outdoor patios are also conducive to implementation as comfortable waiting spaces and as extra space for services. A patio cover or pergola is perfect to shield occupants from direct sunlight. Many spas already offer areas like this and they happen to be highly coveted by visitors who welcome the fresh air and tranquility of the outdoors. Accommodations like these will differentiate some business from others in the present and in the future. Any of these areas will be preferred over standing outside in inclement weather, wearing foil or hair dye while stationed outside of the salon, or sitting inside one's vehicle awaiting an appointment time.
There is no doubt that investing in additional structures will be incredibly beneficial in the long run. Our current situation will eventually pass and personal care services that increased their square footage will then be presented with the opportunity to increase capacity, add more to their offerings, and create an extremely desirable, serene, or trendy locale. If you are considering making changes to your salon, spa or wellness location, please contact us at 888-270-3546 for ideas.