INSIDE

With a little help from his nearest and dearest, Charlie Venn was able to bring his dream barbershop to life, taking inspiration from the 1950s and American barbershop culture

DID THE BARBERSHOP OPEN?

Lucky Sevens Barbershop was opened in September 2019.

WHEN YOU ACQUIRED THE PROPERTY, WHAT WAS IT BEING USED FOR?

The barbershop is actually attached to a salon, and the space was originally used as a training academy – where I started my journey in the hair industry!

TELL US ABOUT THE RENOVATION PROCESS AND ANY CHALLENGES?

The renovation went pretty smoothly; there were long days and nights but my dad is a talented man, and he lent a hand. My partner, Tash, fellow barber, Dan and other family and friends also helped out. Between us all we managed to take it from a training academy to a three-chair barbershop in under two weeks.

WHAT WAS YOUR BUDGET?

I spent just under £6,000 on renovations.

IS THE BARBERSHOP MEANT TO APPEAL TO ANYONE IN PARTICULAR?

I always had a vision of what my dream barbershop would look like, and we managed to achieve that. I always knew that I wanted a bright and welcoming space where everyone was welcome.

DOES THE BARBERSHOP LOOK DIFFERENT IN SEPARATE AREAS, AND IF SO, WHY?

All in all, I would say the theme of Lucky Sevens Barbershop travels throughout all the working spaces.

WHAT MAKES THE SPACE UNIQUE?

Lucky Sevens Barbershop is a bright and colourful space – whereas a lot of shops around me are dark or neutral. I wanted to bring back that busy style, where people ask questions and show interest in what’s around them.

WHAT INFLUENCED THE DESIGN?

The space is heavily influenced by the classic American barbershop, mixed with my love for the 1950s and a touch of modern flair.

WHAT IS THE COLOUR SCHEME, AND WHY DID YOU PICK IT?

The blue was based on a 1950s Chevy pickup, with a pastel pink to complement. It was a unique colour and throughout the build people were unsure but I knew it would all come together.

DO YOU HAVE ANY UNIQUE PIECES OF FURNITURE?

Yes, instead of your typical styling stations, we have tool stations. These were part of a classic range, which meant they were definitely a big expense, but along with the chairs, they make a strong statement and help reinforce the theme of the shop.

HOW MANY CHAIRS ARE THERE?

When we opened, we had three chairs however we have now grown to five, to facilitate four barbers and an apprentice.

DESCRIBE THE LIGHTING IN EACH AREA – WHY WAS IT CHOSEN AND WHAT EFFECT DOES IT HAVE?

The shop is covered in LED light panels. We tried to eliminate any shadows and I like to think we got it just right, although it did take time and patience.

WHAT DECORATIONS DID YOU GO FOR ON THE WALLS AND WHY?

The walls are covered in everything from skateboards, motorbike helmets and more. All of the items were collected over time, and every item has a story.

WHAT IS THE FLOOR MADE FROM?

The floor is covered in lino – cheap and cheerful. We have just replaced it for the first time in three and a half years.

DO YOU HAVE ANY REGRETS, OR THINGS YOU WOULD DO DIFFERENTLY?

None at all! Opening my own barbershop was the best thing I ever did. I always knew I would make it happen one day, and it’s exactly the vision I had in my head.