THE “ARTIST”: KATSUHITO AKIMICHI

The Japanese are well known for their attention to detail and high levels of customer service. At nine-month-old S.A.D’s Hair Design (#01-01 RV Point), these aspects are amplified by the fact that it can host just two customers at a time.

Designed with cool Omotesandostyle interiors, the space boasts raw concrete floors, and framed images of animals sporting chic ’dos (brought in from Japan). The highly personalised service is further enhanced by two ergonomic salon chairs and a movable washbasin by Japanese manufacturer Takara Belmont. What this means: that customers can settle in for a true VIP hair treatment from start to end.

Creature comforts aside, owner Akimichi (who owns three other salons in Japan – Switch, Arut and Diptych – their initials are combined to form the name of his Singapore outpost) is banking on his skills. He’s been a hairstylist for 16 years, and aims to provide customers with “not just a trim, but to transform their appearance so that they look different when they leave the salon”.

After all, his signature choppy cuts combined with rich, intense colouring techniques (think highlights, balayage and ombre) are what Japanese rock stars rock. With true Japanese attention to detail, he not only patiently chats with every customer before picking up his shears, but will also call them a few days after to check in on their hair.

What’s his bet on the next big Japanese hair trend to reach Singapore? He says: “Women in Japan are moving away from kawaii looks to more coollooking styles, such as darker tones in the hair.”