10 barber shop interior ideas

When you think of a barber shop, you might picture classic leather chairs, an old-fashioned pole spinning outside, and the buzz of clippers in the background. But today's barber shops are about more than just haircuts; they're spaces where people come for an experience. That's why your barber shop interior is so important – it's not just about getting the right vibe; it's about creating an environment that reflects your brand, attracts clients, and keeps them coming back.

In this guide, we'll look at barber shop interior ideas, including essentials every barber shop should have. We'll explore different design themes and help you to plan your interior design. Ready to give your barber shop a refresh? Let's get started!

 

 

Why is interior design important for a barber shop?

Before we look at the design ideas, let's discuss why interior design matters. The look and feel of your barber shop can significantly influence the client's experience. A well-designed barber shop sets the mood, creates comfort, and most importantly, reflects the personality of your business.

First impressions are really important, especially in a competitive industry like barbering. Your interior should invite potential customers in, make them feel like they're in the right place, and keep regulars coming back.

 

Steps to plan out your barber shop interior design

  1.  Understand your brand

Your shop’s interior should reflect your personal style and brand identity. Think about what designs will match your barber shop name and the first impression you want to give your clients. Are you more classic, edgy, or modern?

  2.  Know your target audience

Are you catering to young professionals, families, or a more traditional crowd? This will help you determine the kind of atmosphere you want to create.

  3.  Space planning

Before picking out furniture or accessories, you must plan your space carefully. Make sure you have enough room for barbers to move around and seating areas for waiting customers. It’s a good idea to plan out where you will keep equipment such as hair trimmers and clippers too, as they will need to be within easy reach but you don’t want your shop to look cluttered either.

  4.  Lighting matters

The right lighting can make or break your space. You want adequate light to ensure barbers can work without straining their eyes, but you also want to create a warm, inviting ambience.

  5.  Budget

Like any renovation or design project, setting a budget is essential as the costs can add up, depending on the scale of your makeover.

 

Essentials for barber shop interiors

When designing your barber shop, there are a few essentials which will ensure your shop is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

1. Comfortable Barber Chairs: Invest in high-quality, ergonomic barber chairs that are both stylish and comfortable.
2. Mirrors: Mirrors are a must in any barber shop. Not only do they allow the client to see their cut, but they’re also key in enhancing the overall design of the space.
3. Good Lighting: Bright, adjustable lighting is essential for any barber shop, particularly when it comes to the precision of a haircut.
4. Storage Solutions: Barber shops can get cluttered quickly with tools, products, and equipment. Invest in stylish storage solutions like cabinets, shelves, and drawers to keep everything organised.
5. Waiting Area: Clients should feel comfortable while they wait for their haircut. Opt for a couple of plush chairs or a sleek leather sofa.

 

 

Design themes for your barber shop interior

Now, let's explore some design themes you can adopt for your barber shop. The interior design of your barber shop should speak to your target audience while also creating a memorable experience. Here are some design themes to consider:

Sleek & industrial vibes

A barber shop with an industrial design theme is a great way to combine the raw, edgy look with practicality. Think exposed brick walls, polished concrete floors, and metal shelving units. To add warmth, pair the cold metals with wooden accents – perhaps walnut chairs or a dark oak reception desk. Large windows that let in plenty of natural light create an open, airy feel, while a vintage-style barber shop pole can still lend a sense of tradition.

Pro Tip: Add statement lighting like oversized pendant lamps or Edison bulbs to create a welcoming yet bold atmosphere. If you want to take it a step further, consider adding greenery with some potted plants for a pop of colour that softens the industrial feel.

 

Mid-century modern charm

Inspired by the design movement of the 1950s and 1960s, mid-century modern offers clean lines, functional design, and a touch of nostalgia. Furniture pieces in this style are sleek with subtle curves and often feature natural wood tones combined with bold accent colours like teal, mustard yellow, and orange.

Opt for minimalist barber chairs with streamlined metal frames and plush upholstery to enhance this style. Incorporate colourful accent walls or retro-inspired wallpaper to give a vintage yet fresh vibe. Light wood panelling adds a warm touch and classic barber mirrors (circular or oval) can be both functional and decorative pieces.

Pro Tip: Add in mid-century modern decor pieces such as geometric wall art, vintage clocks, and stylish lounge seating to give your barber shop an effortlessly chic aesthetic.

 

Scandi-inspired simplicity

Nordic or Scandinavian design focuses on simplicity, lightness and functionality. For your barber shop, think light wood finishes (like birch or pine), clean lines and an abundance of natural light. Opt for a light colour palette; whites, light greys, and soft pastels, alongside natural materials like wood, leather, and linen.

Barber chairs could feature a simple yet elegant design with neutral upholstery, and the waiting area could have low-profile furniture. Think modern Scandinavian chairs and benches. Add soft touches like wool throws, neutral-coloured rugs and some indoor plants to bring a cosy, yet refined vibe to the space.

Pro Tip: Keep the walls light and bright, and consider adding a focal point like a wall of green plants or a large, abstract piece of art to keep the space lively.

 

Urban chic: Combining vintage and modern

For a more eclectic barber shop, mix modern and vintage design elements. Choose high-end modern furniture (like stylish barber chairs) and pair them with classic, vintage-inspired décor. Think of adding antique mirrors with ornate frames, retro barber shop signage, and old-school leather armchairs in the waiting area.

Consider blending vintage and contemporary patterns in the décor, such as combining a geometric pattern on the floor with a classic chequerboard tile around the workstations. Accent pieces like vintage barber tools or old magazines can add to the retro feel, while a mix of modern lighting fixtures ensures the space remains well-lit and on-trend.

Pro Tip: A monochromatic colour scheme with a few pops of colour can help you balance the vintage and modern elements, ensuring the shop looks curated rather than chaotic.

 

Art Deco elegance

Art Deco offers a luxurious, glamorous approach to design, featuring bold geometric shapes, shiny finishes, and rich materials. Opt for sophisticated gold, black, and white colour schemes, with touches of chrome and mirrored finishes. Think of adding statement pieces like a striking chandelier or vintage-style mirrors that evoke a sense of old Hollywood.

Select materials like velvet or leather for added opulence for the chairs and furniture. Brass or gold accents can elevate the space, while intricate, geometric tiles can add an architectural flair to the flooring.

Pro Tip: Integrate sleek, high-gloss finishes into your furniture, countertops, and storage areas to reflect the shiny and polished nature of Art Deco. A dark-coloured wall with metallic elements will add richness and sophistication to your shop.

 

 

Rustic & masculine comfort

For a barber shop that exudes a cosy, rustic charm, opt for reclaimed wood, dark leather, and vintage-style furnishings. This style creates a relaxed, inviting space with plenty of character. You might go for leather barber chairs, wood-framed mirrors, and industrial-style light fixtures to add a masculine touch.

A rustic colour palette with deep browns, burgundy, or forest greens will give the space a moody, relaxed feel. You could also incorporate vintage signage and old-fashioned radios for a more rugged look.

Pro Tip: Add throw blankets and a large, comfortable sofa in the waiting area for clients to lounge on for a truly cosy atmosphere.

 

Minimalist monochrome

If you prefer a cleaner, more streamlined aesthetic, a minimalist monochrome barber shop might be the right choice. Think black, white and grey tones with sleek, modern furniture. High-quality black barber chairs paired with white walls create a crisp, sophisticated atmosphere.

In this design, the beauty is in the simplicity: choose simple but luxurious materials like matte black fixtures, concrete flooring, and minimalist shelving. Art should be abstract or geometric to complement the modern look.

Pro Tip: Keep your space tidy with minimalist storage solutions—think concealed storage to avoid visual clutter. Simple plants or a single bold art piece can create contrast without overwhelming the space.

 

Tropical relaxation

For a barber shop that’s more laid-back, tropical vibes can offer an escape from the everyday hustle. Choose vibrant colours like teal, coral and mustard to create a lively, sun-kissed atmosphere. Wooden accents, bamboo chairs and light linen fabrics enhance the breezy feel.

You can go with natural materials like bamboo or light wood for flooring, while palm plants and greenery can add an organic touch. Bright, natural light will help make the space feel open and airy, while wicker or rattan furniture can provide comfortable seating.

Pro Tip: A tropical-themed barber shop works well in places with warm climates or beach towns. Consider tropical wallpaper or large wall murals featuring palm leaves to bring the outdoors in.

 

Retro futurism

For a barber shop that blends nostalgic elements with futuristic design, go for retro-futurism. Think chrome, neon lights, and vintage barber chairs paired with ultra-modern fixtures and technological touches. Neon signs, futuristic mirrors, and chrome barber stations can create an edgy, dynamic atmosphere.

Furniture can blend mid-century modern with futuristic shapes—look for chairs and seating with sleek lines and metallic details. Lighting can be minimal but dramatic, with neon strips and coloured lights creating visual interest.

Pro Tip: Consider adding a statement piece like a vintage neon barber shop sign or a metallic sculpture for an added wow factor.

 

Gothic elegance

For a barber shop with a dark, mysterious vibe, embrace gothic design. Think rich, deep colours like black, burgundy and deep purple, combined with intricate, Victorian-inspired details. Ornate, carved wood furniture, velvet upholstery and wrought-iron accents can create a dramatic, moody atmosphere. Lighting should be dim, with soft, ambient tones and dramatic highlights from spotlights or hanging lanterns to evoke a mysterious allure.

Pro Tip: Add a statement piece such as an antique mirror with intricate detailing to elevate the atmosphere and create a captivating focal point.

 

 

FAQs

How do I attract customers to my barber shop?

Attracting customers to your barber shop starts with creating a space that speaks to your target audience. Your interior should not only be visually appealing but also functional and comfortable.

Additionally, offering promotions, providing exceptional service, and keeping your social media updated with the latest styles and deals can help drive traffic. Don’t forget about word-of-mouth marketing; creating a space where people love to hang out will encourage them to tell their friends!

What colour walls look best in a barber shop?

For barber shops, neutral colours like grey, white, or black work well because they create a sleek and modern feel. If you want a warmer, cosier vibe, consider earthy tones like browns and taupes. You can also add accents of bolder colours like navy, forest green or mustard yellow to make certain areas pop, such as the waiting area.

 

Final thoughts

The interior design of your barber shop is more than just decoration; it’s a way to communicate your brand and create a space that customers will want to return to. Take the time to plan out your space carefully, keeping in mind both functionality and style.

Ultimately, your barber shop interior should reflect the unique experience you want to offer, making it a place where clients not only come to get a great haircut but feel at home.

 

Specialist barber shop insurance through Ripe

As a barber shop owner, you may want to consider getting specialist barber shop insurance for peace of mind when working with clients.

Specialist barber shop insurance arranged by Ripe includes Public and Products Liability cover as well as Treatment Risk cover as standard. Get an instant online quote today to find out how much your cover could cost.