Open Sesame

Against the odds, several beauty businesses are setting up shop postlockdown. Of note are the swishy new Servilles salon at City Works and Skintopia, a skincare clinic opening tomorrow at Commercial Bay. Having navigated delayed launches, the owners bring welcome style and substance to these businesses.

Hair industry veteran Paul Serville closed his Ponsonby Rd corner salon of 27 years standing some months back in favour of a new CBD site at 18 Sale St. It was realised by architect Jack McKinney, a 2019 House of the Year winner, who also designed Amano restaurant. The interior features bubble lights salvaged from Clooney restaurant, 56 mirrors, and a painted mural by Ross Lewis — complete with a hidden figure for clients to try to spot. Platinum stylist Monique Hoareau is back on the team. Skintopia is a venture by Natasha Bourke, an entrepreneurial woman who distributes Dermalogica in New Zealand and has 20 years experience in skincare.

The second-level space, worked on by interior design agency Material Creative, takes inspiration from skin, using materials and colours to represent its layers, texture and structure. Results-focused treatments rather than wow-woo wind chimes and whale sounds are on offer. “There is no hiding the health of your skin,” says Natasha. The focus is on bespoke care, ranging from facials to express treatments and grooming. An open-plan area is supplemented by enclosed therapy rooms. Alongside Dermalogica, supplements and New Zealand brand Aleph Beauty are sold. International businesses Dior and Mecca are also opening beauty stores at Commercial Bay this week.