In the world of opera, an aria is a melody written for a soloist. For Crystal Philipou, the biggest challenge in creating an all-white décor that put the spotlight on her clients was choosing its materials, from the marble floors to the tufted, leather furnishings to the refreshment bar. “”We had to carefully research each item to make sure it would maintain durability,” says Philipou.

Every aspect of the salon creates a spa-like ambiance that gives each client a personal moment. A private shampoo room encourages clients to lounge in a massage chair while enjoying a scalp massage and one of the salon’s signature hair treatments. A dry bar raises the bar on the blowout experience, while creating and area for six friends to enjoy a girl’s night out. The bridal suite offers a bride and a friend a moment of indulging retreat while preparing for the big day.  

Philipou also considered her salon culture and her team while planning her space. “The design creates an atmosphere that allows our team to express their creativity while providing an upscale experience.”

Ariablancsalon.com
Owner: Crystal Philipou
Established: November 2014
Salon style: Upscale, Contemporary, Hairspa
Square footage: 3,400
Stations: 35
Treatment Rooms: 1
Equipment: Custom
Furniture: Custom
Total design investment: $654,000
Retail lines: Oribe, R&Co, Ouidad
Color line: Goldwell
Design by: Crystal Philipou
Architects: Mark Anthony
Photography: Will Cadena

Judges’ Comments:
 “White is the color of a new canvas, wiping out the old and creating new.”—Jeff Grissler
 “Fresh flowers and a beautiful retail area provide ‘pops’ of color against Aria Blanc’s airy white décor.”—Jan Hillenmeyer

Owner’s Comment:
“The design creates an atmosphere that allows our team to express their creativity while providing an upscale experience.”