INSIDE: SUPPLY 91

TAKE A PEEK INSIDE SUPPLY 91’S NEW FLAGSHIP LOCATION, NESTLED AMIDST THE VIBRANT HEART OF CENTRAL LONDON

WHEN DID THE BARBERSHOP OPEN?

May 2023.

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

The unit was part of the new renovation at The Quadrant Arcade, by The Crown Estate. They had renovated each space within the Grade II Listed building on Regent Street, so our shop was a blank page.

TELL US ABOUT THE RENOVATION PROCESS AND ANY CHALLENGES?

The renovation was a team effort, and we were able to complete it in under a month. The shop is spread over three floors, with a square footage of 2,150. Our main challenges included managing costs, time constraints, and labour. Applying limewash to walls was a new skill for us, but we were up for the test and were delighted with the results. To overcome these obstacles we also pulled in favours from clients, friends, and our team, allowing us to complete the project within budget.

WHAT WAS YOUR BUDGET?

Our budget was just under £20k.

IS THE BARBERSHOP MEANT TO APPEAL TO ANYONE IN PARTICULAR?

Our shop connects Regent Street to Soho, a hub for both Londoners and tourists. Our clients come from all walks of life, ranging from high earners in various creative and media industries, to students and young professionals. We strive to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone who walks through our doors, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or background.

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

We wanted the energy to flow through the shop. Continuity was important to us, however we have created small pockets of attention, curating product displays on the shelves and developing scents and music to engage the senses. We like to think about how the shop looks through the eyes of the customer.

WHAT MAKES THE SPACE UNIQUE?

Supply 91 sets itself apart from other barbershops in London with its unique and inclusive atmosphere. The minimalist design, and natural colour palette creates a relaxing and welcoming space for clients from all backgrounds. This attention to detail and commitment to creating a neutral space allows clients to feel comfortable and at ease during their appointment.

WHAT INFLUENCED THE DESIGN?

We took influence from our shared appreciation of Scandinavian and Japanese interiors.

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

We used ‘Sandstone’ by Bauwerk, a limewash, for the walls and dark walnut stains on the wood elements. Bauwerk was the perfect nod to Scandinavian interior design, and we love how the texture and depth looks.

TELL US ABOUT WHERE YOU BOUGHT THE FURNISHINGS

Along with our architect, we designed a minimal yet functional space that uses concealed workspaces and floating shelving. This vision was brought to life by the talented Inigo at XS Group, who handmade all the wooden aspects in the shop. Our shop prides itself on being minimalist, so there’s no artwork or unnecessary furnishings. Everything has been carefully selected for functionality, whilst being aesthetically pleasing.

HOW MANY STATIONS ARE THERE?

We have a total of seven stations, three on the ground floor and four on the first floor. We wanted them to feel open and uncompromised by a basin or shelving units – we like that the customer can see themselves top-totoe when getting their hair cut.

CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE LIGHTING IN EACH AREA?

We have a big window at the front of the shop, and it was important to us to carry the light all the way into the shop. We have spotlights with carefully balanced bulb hues to ensure a well-lit cut.

WHAT IS THE FLOOR MADE FROM?

We have been extremely lucky with the flooring in our shop, the blonde wood floor was pre-existing in the space and we love how it looks.

DO YOU HAVE ANY REGRETS?

This journey was incredibly positive for us, we utilised our friends and clients to create a community of help and support to make this space what it is today. There have been challenges we have learned from, but we have no regrets.