The Barber Station is a key piece in any hairdresser’s or barbershop. It is the place where the barber performs their work and where they keep their tools and products. A well-designed station can make the difference between an ordinary barbershop and one with its own style.
In this article, we will explore trends in barber station design, from classic to contemporary styles. We will analyze materials, shapes, colors, and functionality to create the perfect barber furniture. Let’s get started!
Classic Barber Station Styles
Classic station designs are characterized by straight lines, noble materials such as wood, and glossy finishes. They have a retro and vintage air that never goes out of style. Some popular styles are:
Vintage Wooden Barber Station
This classic design consists of a wooden station with turned legs. It usually has drawers and doors to store tools. The countertop is often made of wood or marble to facilitate cleaning.
Wood brings warmth and is ideal for barbershops seeking a cozy and masculine atmosphere. The most commonly used woods are oak, walnut, or cherry.
Barber Station with Retro Mirror
Another iconic design is the station with a large oval or half-moon mirror on the wall. Usually, there is a wooden dresser with drawers and space to place tools on the countertop underneath.
The vintage mirror with a metal frame is the star and reflects the traditional essence of the classic barbershop.
Vintage-Style Metal Barber Station
Iron or steel stations with chrome or gold finishes are also a vintage-style option. The metal gives it an industrial and professional look. They are easy to clean and very resistant to daily use in a barbershop.
Their silhouette is usually rectangular or L-shaped, with shelves to place all the instruments at hand. They are ideal for creating a vintage American atmosphere.
Modern and Contemporary Designs
For a more current look, there are station designs with clean lines and contemporary materials such as glass, concrete, or stone. Current trends include:
Minimalist Barber Station
The minimalist style is characterized by simplicity and geometric shapes. The stations are usually rectangular, with pure lines and glass or polished metal countertops.
The aim is to reduce them to the maximum, with space only for the essentials. They are ideal for modern and urban barbershops.
Concrete and Wood Barber Station
The combination of concrete and wood is very popular. Concrete provides an industrial and rough look, while wood adds warmth.
They are usually stations with concrete legs or bases, and wooden countertops. Concrete can also be used only for the base, with wood on the entire upper part.
Barber Station with LED Lighting
LED light strips have become very fashionable in furniture of all kinds, and barber stations are no exception.
This lighting can be installed under shelves to create a futuristic atmosphere or on the mirror to illuminate the client’s face. It is a very modern and avant-garde option.
Materials for Manufacturing a Barber Station
The materials chosen to manufacture a station will largely determine its style and functionality. Let’s look at some of the best options:
Wood
As we have seen, wood is a timeless classic in barber furniture. It brings a warm and masculine touch that is so desirable. The most commonly used woods are oak, cherry, beech, walnut, or mahogany.
It needs to be well-sealed to withstand stains and moisture from daily use in a barbershop. Recycled or driftwood is also an eco-friendly and chic option.
Metal and Steel
Stainless steel, brass, or iron are ideal for creating durable and easy-to-clean furniture. They look good in industrial or vintage styles. Steel can be combined with wood to create contrast.
Concrete
As we have seen, concrete is a trend. It looks modern and rustic. It can be used alone as a base or to cover the entire station. It is porous, so it needs to be sealed to facilitate cleaning and prevent stains.
Glass
Glass gives the station an elegant and light touch. However, you must ensure that you choose a tempered, scratch-resistant glass. Glass can also be combined with a metal or wood structure.
Natural Stone
Marble, granite, or slate are also good options. They have the timeless elegance of stone but are expensive. They need to be sealed to be completely waterproof.
Functionality in Barber Station Design
In addition to style, a good barber station must be functional. Some aspects to consider:
- Ample surface to work comfortably and place all the necessary tools.
- Drawers and cabinets to store what is not being used at the moment.
- Open shelves or racks for quick access to instruments.
- Removable trays that can be taken to the washing area.
- Space to hang scissors, combs, or other frequently used objects.
- Power outlet to plug in electrical appliances.
- Integrated sink for washing instruments.
- Large, well-lit mirror.
- Swivel and comfortable seat for the barber and client.
Taking all these details into
account will make the barber’s work more comfortable, efficient, and safe.
Colors for a Barber Station
In terms of colors, the classic choice is to opt for masculine and dark tones such as black, gray, brown, or bottle green.
But current barbershops also dare with colors like red, Klein blue, or yellow to create a more vibrant and striking atmosphere.
Metallic finishes such as gold, copper, or brass are also fashionable, as they bring luminosity and contrast.
The important thing is that the color of the station is consistent with the image and style that the barbershop wants to convey. And that it complements the other decorative elements of the premises well.
Lighting for the Barber Station
Lighting is key to creating the desired atmosphere and allowing you to work comfortably. Some recommendations:
- Natural light whenever possible. Place the station near windows.
- LED front light on the mirror to illuminate the client’s face.
- Adjustable lamps or spotlights to illuminate the work area.
- LED strips under shelves to create a modern effect.
- Warm light, never cold tones that distort colors.
- Dimmable intensity.
Good lighting without shadows makes working more comfortable and allows you to appreciate details and nuances in the cut and shave.
Inspiration in Barber Station Designs
To inspire you, here are some examples of very creative barber station designs:
- Recycled wood and concrete countertop for an industrial contrast.
- Black metal structure and glass top for an elegant style.
- Vintage red neon for a retro-futuristic design.
- Exposed bricks and wood for a rustic touch.
- Open étagères instead of cabinets to display products.
- Pink marble as a countertop for a feminine contrast.
- Drawers with wheels for mobility.
- Clocks, logos, or 3D letters to personalize.
Frequently Asked Questions about Barber Station Design
What size should a barber station be?
The barber station should be at least 1.5 to 2 meters long to work comfortably. The depth can be 60 to 90 cm, and the standard height is 90 cm.
How do I choose the correct height for the station?
Ideally, the station should be at the barber’s elbow height. This way, they can work without bending or straining their arms. For most people, the perfect height is between 85 and 95 cm.
Is it better to have a station with or without drawers?
Both options are valid. Drawers allow you to store tools that are not used continuously. Open shelves are more accessible. The ideal is to combine both or have drawers on wheels.
How do I integrate a sink into the station?
The best option is to place the sink at one end of the station, with a high faucet for easily washing shaving foam. Another option is to have removable trays that can be taken to the sink.
How do I properly light the mirror in the station?
Place an LED strip in front that illuminates the face from above without creating shadows. You can also add two spotlights on the sides or stylish wall sconces on both sides of the mirror.
Is it better to have a large mirror or two side mirrors?
The ideal is to have a large central mirror (at least 60 cm wide) and complement it with two side mirrors so the client can see the profile. This allows for a better appreciation of the entire cut and shave.
How do I integrate the station with the rest of the barbershop?
Use the same materials and color palette in the station and the rest of the furniture to create harmony. Play with decorative elements (wallpaper, paintings) to create an atmosphere. The lighting should also be consistent.
Is it worth hiring a designer for the barber station?
Hiring a designer can be a good investment to make your barbershop stand out. It ensures an ergonomic and aesthetic design that reflects your brand. It will also save you costly beginner’s mistakes.
What permit do I need to install a station in my barbershop?
Depending on the regulations in your city, you may need a minor works permit and comply with accessibility regulations. Consult your local authorities before purchasing or building a station.
As you can see, designing a barber station goes far beyond choosing a beautiful piece of furniture. You must consider functionality, aesthetics, ergonomics, and regulations to create an optimal workspace. This article gives you all the keys to make the right choice and create a memorable barbershop.
