My Space: Stephen Cockle on his stylish hair salon.

Stephen Cockle’s favourite work space is his ASC Salon

Describe the space: “The building in Parnell, Auckland was originally an art gallery. It was a blank canvas so we were able to create the space we wanted for the hair salon. For the renovations in 2016, we removed all of their lighting, stairs and colour scheme to create an entirely new aesthetic. Our directive to the design company Material Creative was for an industrial look but which was warm and inviting. Split over two floors, it gives us the ability to separate our cutting and blow-drying services from our colour. It was important to be able to have a relaxing space for our guests. A quintessential lounge-like environment, a home away from home.” What inspires you about this space? “The fact that it is a heritage building. The location, the general look and feel. Although there is a lot of steel throughout the space, it’s softened by the combination of the light and cool tones generated by the Fornasetti wallpaper in our colour room, and the art work and white walls. It is definitely a space that we love spending our day in.” Why do you come to this space? “To create and be inspired by my colleagues and our guests.

I love working closely with many people, and building lasting relationships while being able to be highly creative.” What is your role? “I’m the creative director of the salon and own it with my wife Andrea. You could call us veterans of the industry as we both started back in 1995 working in Auckland but also with a stint in London. We like to pass on that knowledge with training and development of our team and we’re also all about using products that are ethical, sulphate, paraben and cruelty free. We have magazines on Ipad and in paper form for guests to enjoy.”