Located in the heart of the NOHO Arts district, the Hugh O’Brien Salon offers excellent cut and color in an upbeat and contemporary atmosphere. Come see what has made this well established and cutting edge salon the favorite of locals and celebrities alike. I recently had the opportunity to sit down with the owner/stylist of the salon Hugh O’Brien and colorist Brenda Zoran to discuss what makes coming to their salon a unique and exceptional experience.
What made you choose the NOHO Art District as the location for your salon?
Hugh: I have been a long supporter of the NOHO Arts District and opened my salon with the believe that it was an up and coming area. In the years that I have been in this location, I have been excited to experience the transformation and change. There is a vitality and energy about it that sets it apart from other areas of Los Angeles.
What is your experience and training?
Hugh: I trained in NY with Paul Mitchell and Sasoon. I moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the film and television industry as a stylist. I have worked and owned salons from Beverly Hills to Studio City and eventually settled into my current location on Magnolia.
Brenda: Aside from my formal training, I keep current with trends and products by attending classes and workshops. I have attended the Energizing Summit (an intensive training for hair colorist) for several years, I have also participated in symposiums and workshops offered by Schwarzkopf and Redken. I specialize in correctional color and repair.
Have you worked with celebrity clientele?
Hugh: Yes, I have worked with many people in the industry. I have done music videos, sitcoms and features. My client base includes industry professionals that work both in front of and behind the scenes. We are ideally located next to many of the studios and actors workshops.
Brenda: Yes, we have many clients who are in the industry. We prefer not to name them due to respecting their privacy.
What do customers like about your salon and why do you think you have such a strong repeat customer base?
Hugh: I think that my customers like coming to my salon because of the casual yet professional atmosphere, not only do they know that they are going to get an excellent service but its a place they feel comfortable and relaxed. Its upscale and contemporary in design but its not an intimidating or pretentious place. I pride myself in creating an atmosphere that makes everyone who walks through the door know that they will get my undivided attention and that they will leave happy and satisfied.
Brenda: I think we are very personable with a relaxing atmosphere. Our clientele are always happy with their results and if there is an issue we take care of it. They also like that I have an excellent knowledge of color with a wide range of experience both as a colorist and with cutting men’s hair.
Tell me about the Automatic Hair-washing Machine and your product line?
Hugh: Our customers love the Automatic Hair-washer or as we nicknamed it the “shampilator.” I discovered it while studying hair in England. It wasn’t available in the US until 7 years ago. We were the first salon in Southern California to have it. Its a shampooer and scalp massager. It’s a very relaxing and invigorating experience. Some of our clients actually just come in just or a shampoo and condition. The product line that we have developed offers our clients a high end luxury line of products without the high end price. We offer sulfate free shampoos, conditioners and easy to use styling products. We are very excited about our latest product addition that became available in September.
What is your philosophy on cutting hair. What kinds of things do you take in to consideration when an client sits down in your chair
Hugh: I believe that a good stylist must incorporate the client’s vision of what they want with the knowledge and experience that I have to make it happen. Communication and dialogue between myself and the client is crucial. I am there to listen and to offer advise and input. I love what I do and I think my clients can tell that I have a passion to create high style in a low key atmosphere.
Brenda: Communication is key. A long consultation is important in order for me to achieve and understand what a client is looking for and the results that they want. Once I understand what they are trying to achieve I can apply my knowledge and experience to help understand if what they want will work on their hair type. I am always honest and open about what color can do on different types of hair. I love the challenge of creating something new. Seeing the transformation is very exciting for me.
Editor’s Note: The Hugh O’Brien Salon also offers “Express Bar”, if you are in need of a blow out, a flat iron or a clipper cut – appointments for these services are not necessary but we encourage you to call ahead so that we cam get you in, looking great and on your way quickly.
Hugh O”Brien Salon
10618 Magnolia Blvd.
818 509-0986
Tues – Sat
http://www.hughobriensalon.com
Morning and evening appointments
The Salon services include Cut, Color, Highlights and ombré.
Best hair cut/style I have ever had!