Francis Beauty in Salmiya, Kuwait was a full renovation undertaken by Studio Nama of a unique beauty salon in Costa Tower. Its irregular, curved plan required conformity to its form, while also lending the opportunity to turn its necessity into inspiration for its high-end purpose. With panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and Kuwait City, bringing light and space to the indoors was a synchrony of open plan design, organic and irregular forms, and a harmony of grays, nudes, and greens that at times expanded areas while other times created a cozily nestled, yet connected space—all at once relaxing, inviting, and inspiring. Visitors are greeted by a long-arched entrance, giving off a feeling of exclusivity and privacy, as one is led through the suggestive entrance towards the main open area of the salon. 

While the outside view feels vast over looking the seaside & Kuwait city, the restrained curved plan compelled the driving themes of openness and organicness. To sculpt the space, the hairdressing chairs were arrayed along the length of the curve—facing frameless, irregular mirrors which created a sense of boundlessness. To divide the wash area from the hairdressing area, a custom-designed metal shelf with an acid-etched glass envelope separated them while allowing dances of light and movement to travel from one end of the salon to the other. 

For organicness, the colors and materials were purposefully chosen to create textures and moods that lend to the relaxing nature of a salon. The poured-in-place terrazzo flooring featured green and nude colors designed with curved metal divider details that mirrored the space’s shape—while the walls were painted in textured stucco for a grounded, earthly feel. With color, a difference of space was accentuated. To create unity, the wash area’s custom drawers were stained light green to match the surrounding palettes of beiges, greens, and grays. While for a more isolated, cozy area, the corner for nails was painted a deep emerald green to make it feel like a haven tucked away, while still offering a glimpse of the main space. For visitors to Francis Beauty, this renovation unites the luxurious and the visionary, for a memorable high-end experience.