Salon of Distinction: Square One Salon

Square One Salon and Spa Dayton, Ohio squareonesalon.com Owners: Doug Henderson, Josh Stucky, Brent Johnson Salon established: November 1999 Opening after remodel: November 2008 Salon style: Chic, modern, comfortable Square footage: 5,200 Styling stations: 12 Treatment rooms: 4 Equipment: Belvedere Furniture: Belvedere, antiques Total design investment: $212,000 Top retail line: Aveda Design: Chambers Architecture Architect: Chuck Chambers

Judges comments: “Very welcoming!” — Cicela “The sheer space and height of this salon is such an advantage for both clients and staff.” — Soukhopalov “Relaxed vibe and unique but tasteful décor lends itself to a hip, personalized interior.” — Pelafas

“We have two client comfort waiting areas. One is more traditional and brightly lit; the other is super cozy with a ventless gas fireplace, flat-screen TV (featuring a looped video about our salon), leather sofa, candles and dim lighting. Clients immediately feel welcomed and relaxed. Many clients apologize for remaining in the areas because they don’t get to relax like this anywhere else. ‘That, I tell them, is not a problem at all.’”