Nail salon opens in transformed space

‘It’s a feel-good environment,’ co-owner says

The Painesville Township salon features comfortably separated stations, a superior ventilation system and cleaning measures that extend to removing and disinfecting filters in basins after each use.

Unlike some beauty establishments needing to make adjustments for distancing protocols due to the coronavirus pandemic, Brian and Dee Kolin designed their new business, Zenergy Nails, with safety in mind from the start.

The Painesville Township salon features comfortably separated stations, a superior ventilation system and cleaning measures that extend to removing and disinfecting filters in basins after each use.

Brian, who handles the business end of the operation, noted that “we wanted to make the clients feel comfortable.”

The Mentor couple initiated the idea for the enterprise in September 2020 when they were told a space became available at Emerald Pointe, east of Creekside Commons.

Dee, an experienced nail technician, had worked at other Lake County salons but carried with her the dream of one day opening her own shop. Also, she had established a sizeable following and knew the time had come when more room was needed.

“I’ve been doing it for so long…17 years. It’s who I am now,” she said. “I saw what I could do for myself and my clientele.”

A native of Thailand, she grew up in Hawaii following her parents’ emigration to the U.S. The move to Ohio came about after meeting Brian, a former Strongsville resident.

Last November the duo got busy transforming the previously vacant space into a stylish, modern setting with the help of Joe Crawford of Crawford Custom Concepts based in Painesville Township.

Zenergy officially opened its doors in early January when renovations were complete.

While contemplating a name for their new business the couple gravitated toward “zen” because of its tranquil implications and the type of atmosphere they hoped to create. Dee’s daughter Kalina, a Mentor High School student, tacked on the word “energy” to make it complete.

A zen vibe was fashioned through the use of muted colors and sleek surfaces complemented by artistic images created by Brian who also works as a professional photographer with Michaelangelo’s Photography in Cleveland.

“It’s a feel-good environment,” Dee said.

Not available at all salons but highly useful for those receiving manicure and pedicure services is a large, circular piece of equipment that serves as both a hands and feet dryer. While seated near the table freshly polished fingers and toes can be dried simultaneously.

Zenergy specializes in manicures, pedicures, gel polish, dip powder and acrylics. Hundreds of colors and products are neatly displayed for clients’ perusal and use.

“You can never have too much,” Dee said.

Brian is proud of his wife and her work.

“She’s about doing it right, without rushing (clients) in and out the door,” he said. “They trust her. She has their well-being in mind.”

Dee noted that if she meets a client that might be experiencing a health issue with nails she’ll advise them to see a doctor prior to obtaining cosmetic services.

She will also repair nails should a broken one occur between manicures.

All services are provided by appointment only, an approach that Dee says is more patron-friendly than walk-in nail salons where wait time may be lengthy.

“I tell my clients ‘when you’re happy, I’m happy’,” she said.

SUBMITTED State-of-the-art pedicure stations offer clients the opportunity for a relaxed experience at Zenergy Nails.

SUBMITTED Dee Kolin, left, Hannah Lette and Brian Kolin pose at Zenergy Nails in Painesville Township.