In the dense commercial milieu of Green Park market, South Delhi, Affinity Salon emerges as a spatial proposition that redefines conventional beauty-service paradigms. The 2,700-square-foot intervention, distributed across a two-level framework, presents a dialogue between programmatic necessity and an inviting atmosphere.
The architectural language decisively moves away from prevalent commercial styles. Eschewing their previous conventional opulence of black and gold, the new materials are more nuanced and informed by Japanese-Scandinavian minimalist principles. The intention is clear: to cultivate an environment where clients can comfortably linger, engaging in self-care rituals amidst organic forms and understated elegance, while redefining the brand language.
The building’s street presence is articulated through a Corten Steel envelope, punctuated by organically conceived glazing geometries. This façade treatment is a deliberate design choice that serves as a powerful urban gesture. While establishing a distinct architectural identity going beyond the commercial signification, it simultaneously makes the structure stand out in stark contrast to other salons vying for attention in the area.
Upon entry, customers are greeted by a striking double-height entrance adorned with a cantilever canopy. It is an invitation to explore the salon’s multi-level layout.
While the ground floor is a welcoming entry, it sequences toward the first floor, where the primary service areas are located. On the first floor, the design employs a sophisticated colour-coding system to delineate different functional zones. The female styling stations are distinguished by warm terracotta tones. In contrast, the barber zones, positioned toward the rear of the salon, feature rich coffee-coloured elements. The floor plan efficiently integrates complementary services, with nail and shampoo stations strategically positioned to ensure smooth operational flow while maintaining clear spatial boundaries between different service areas.
The staggered positioning of styling stations creates a sophisticated spatial rhythm while addressing privacy concerns through implied behavioural zoning. Solid glass brick screens emerge as a recurring architectural motif, yet another introduction as a signature element to captivate the eyes.
The second floor is designed to provide an elevated level of privacy. This level houses private treatment rooms dedicated to personalised beauty and wellness services, accommodating various specialised cosmetic procedures and treatments in individual enclosed spaces. The configuration is a result of careful consideration of both operational efficiency and client comfort.
Aesthetically, the material palette operates within a chromatic range of beige and terracotta tones. These muted hues create a calming atmosphere conducive to relaxation.
Instead of the usual 90-degree angles, curved corners were chosen to promote fluidity throughout the space. Textured walls and materials such as mirrored column cladding further enrich the sensory experience, inviting exploration and engagement.
Ultimately, this aligns with Affinity’s broader business strategy of brand expansion and potential franchise development. Through a careful consideration of spatial, material, and experiential parameters, the project presents a compelling case study in the evolution of service-oriented architecture within the contemporary urban condition.
