For me, getting my hair done can often be a process I dread. I have masses of hair, and I mean masses and it takes forever. The majority of hairdressers feel the need to continually tell me how much hair I have and how they need to mix up more colour. It makes the process much less enjoyable and leaves me desperate to leap out of the seat as soon as it’s done.
However, now at the age of 33 I seem to have finally found my salon haven. Nestled in the picturesque village of Crowthorne in Berkshire, set opposite the stunning grounds of the prestigious Wellington College sits The Colour Palette Salon, a unisex hair and beauty lounge.
For me The Colour Palette Salon is more of a destination than an ordinary salon. The décor is stunning – and feels as though you’re walking into a hip coffee shop with its inviting sofas, chic coffee table books and beautiful flower arrangements.
The inviting and relaxed setting has all been designed by salon owner and founder, Hardia who was inspired by her home in South Africa as well as her travels all around the globe – Hardia herself, instantly makes you feel invited into the space and is humble about what she’s created.
The salon offers a huge range of hair services, headed up by Creative Director, Alessio Matta whose previous role saw him leading the Vidal Sassoon Academy. Alessio is expertly assisted by the rest of the hair team.
I was booked in for half a head of highlights by the beautiful Molly. I was tempted to go a little darker with my highlights after the last salon I visited instructing me to do so, but after much discussion and reassurance from Molly we opted to keep me as blonde as possible – which was music to my ears.
The process was quick and speedy – and soon after the colour was applied I was left for my colour to take. Like most Mum’s I don’t often get any time to ‘beautify’ myself, and feel guilty for taking time out to look after myself, so tend not to do it too often.
But what’s so wonderful about The Colour Palette salon is that they have everything you could possibly need all under one roof. Meaning, I could get my nails done whilst I sat waiting for my colour to lift. It makes sense to get it all done in one hit when childcare is sorted and otherwise I’d just sit aimlessly scrolling on my phone.
The beauty space upstairs is again like a tranquil oasis. With multiple nail stations, the chicest of pedicure stations, a make-up area and treatment rooms. You really could spend all day at the salon and come away not only looking your best but feeling your best too.
Beauty is manned by a team of expert beauticians all trained to the highest standard, bringing you exclusive treatments only available from The Colour Palette Salon such as celebrity favourite ‘The Bee Sting facial’. Loved by Kate Middleton herself and also stocked on the shelves of premium stores like Harvey Nichols.
I was lucky enough to be booked in with the lovely Nicole for a much-needed shellac manicure – I could have happily sat and chatted with Nicole all day. Two weeks on, and my nails are still in perfect shape.
Once my colour had taken and a luxury treatment had been applied, Alessio cut my hair. Adding layers in the longest part to bring the shape together after a little bit of a disastrous cut some time ago. Alessio is fascinating to chat too – and once again didn’t question how thick my hair is!
The salon only opened in April 2019 but has quickly amassed a cult following due to the meticulous work of the hair and beauty team. After my experience of the salon, I can see why. It’s like a breath of fresh air and I honestly, can’t wait to return again.
