A well-known and leading hair salon for over 30 years, Axis Salon – formerly Axis Hairdressing – launched in 1991, and continues to thrive now under the helm of Adam and Michelle Ciaccia. The salon now leads the way in Canberra since 2013 with Adam as managing partner and social media acclaim leading to unprecedented profitability and growth, but with challenges and learnings along the way.

Once described as a “modest” eight-chair space, the salon’s bold content strategy saw it grow to a 25-staff operation. However, various challenges through this phase, particularly with the impact of the pandemic on the business, allowed Adam and Michelle to revaluate and streamline the business to an optimal point, with key business insights through this process.

“In the face of challenges and with the benefit of hindsight, Adam and I decided to reassess the salon’s operations,” Michelle said. “We recognised the importance of optimising fixed costs, such as wages, insurances, and rent, to ensure long-term sustainability. Negotiations in our current location hit a roadblock when we realised that our rent was set to double. This sealed our fate at this location and prompted us to search for a new location. This presented an opportunity to start afresh, incorporating the lessons we had learned over the years.”

“Axis Salon emerged as the result of this revaluation and subsequent relocation. It represents an evolution that draws from decades of experience in the industry, with input from hair professionals and salon guests, past and present; and recognising the changing needs of the salons clientele. The new incarnation is best described as smaller and specialised; even though the physical space is bigger, embracing a boutique approach to our hairdressing services, this reflects a commitment to delivering personalised, high-quality services. Axis Salon’s point of difference lies in its versatility and commitment to providing a unique experience for both hair professionals and clients.”

This new space was redesigned to ensure a bright and inviting atmosphere, as built with natural lighting merged with well-designed artificial lighting, and an open environment for comfort and relaxation.

“Axis Salon’s design philosophy leans towards minimalism and modern aesthetics,” Michelle shared. “This approach involves clean lines, simple colour palettes, and uncluttered spaces. We wanted a design that conveys a sense of sophistication and elegance. We sourced our salon furniture from Maletti in Italy, we believe it reflects a commitment to quality and luxury. High-quality furniture not only enhances the salon’s aesthetics but also contributes to the comfort and satisfaction of both clients and staff. Italian design is associated with craftsmanship and timeless elegance, which aligns with the salon’s aesthetic goals.”

“The salon’s design considers the comfort and experience of both clients and staff,” she continued, “Comfortable and ergonomic furniture makes a difference in how clients feel during their appointments, while also ensuring that staff can work efficiently and comfortably. While the salon priorities aesthetics, it also emphasises functionality. A well-designed salon layout and furniture placement can optimise workflow and create a seamless experience for clients. The blend of functionality and elegance results in a salon that not only looks good but works efficiently.”

Features include a custom-made table by NOMI in Sydney, which acts as a shared workspace for clients and includes features such as wireless phone charging, high-speed fibre internet connectivity and space for laptops and documents, speaking to how accommodating and welcoming the salon is for clients.

Within this environment, the salon prides itself on trending, fashion forward cut and colour that lasts, with versatile hero services to match the diverse clientele. Salon partnerships with the L’Oréal Professional Products Division, for which Adam educates, and particularly brands such as L’Oréal Professional, Kérastase, Matrix and Redken, offers high-quality and varied technology to suit these needs.

“We have quite a diverse client base; those who want the hottest hair trends, classic blondes and brunettes complemented by free-flowing haircuts to those whose hair is a form of expression, creative, bold and fun,” Michelle said. “We attribute the diversity in our clientele to having a team that’s always training and maintaining a broad skill set. The demand for Keratin smoothing and hair extensions has increased dramatically in the last twelves months also.”

Beyond a diverse clientele, the salon also hosts and employs a varied employment models that suits the needs of a myriad of hairdressers.

“The salon is designed to accommodate a diverse range of hair professionals; including local and international full-time staff, part-time workers, and contractors. This holistic approach to employment allows for a dynamic and collaborative environment where professionals with different working arrangements can thrive,” Michelle shared.

The salon additionally hosts education events for professional salon brands and facilitates ‘The Establishment Academy’ as an independent education leader.

Welcoming clients and hairdressers alike with professionalism, convenience and education at its core, this is Axis Salon.

For more information visit www.axishair.com.au

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