NOKE Architects designed the interiors of Ruby Blue hair salon in Warsaw by translating the shapes and textures of desert landscapes into a fluid and immersive spatial experience. The project combines organic forms, handcrafted elements and sculptural lighting to create a strongly sensory environment.
Organic interiors inspired by erosion and caves
The concept draws inspiration from the forms shaped by wind, erosion and weathering in desert environments. Curved walls, sculpted surfaces and fluid geometries reinterpret the visual language of caves and dunes within the salon interiors.
The space includes two floors with 15 hairdressing stations, two barber stations, manicure and pedicure areas, as well as a VIP room. The reception desk, walls and staircase all feature soft curvilinear forms designed through advanced digital modelling tools.
Spatial layout and natural light
Large shop windows facing the street allow abundant daylight to enter the salon, reinforcing the soft material palette and the sculptural quality of the interiors.
The first floor features walls shaped as rolled waves, while the spiral staircase connects the different areas through a continuous spatial gesture. Curtains subdivide the upper floor, creating more intimate zones while maintaining visual fluidity.
Materials, colours and handcrafted details
The colour palette remains intentionally restrained, dominated by sandy shades inspired by the desert landscape. Variations of beige appear on walls, curtains, handles and furniture surfaces.
Ruby red accents reference the salon’s name and help organise the different functional areas. The VIP room uses deeper ruby tones to reinforce its intimate atmosphere.
The curved walls are finished with natural plaster and ecological paints, while the staircase and ceiling drapery were handcrafted by specialised artisans to preserve the uniqueness of each element.
Lighting design and glass installations
Lighting plays a central role in the project. NOKE Architects aimed to maximise reflected light in order to reduce harsh shadows and create a soft visual background for clients.
The salon also integrates sculptural lighting installations developed with Aureola Studio. A neon composition reflected in an infinity mirror creates a mirage-like effect above the staircase, while a luminous totem marks the barber area on the ground floor.
The neon green reception counter and coloured glass furniture designed by Barańska Studio introduce reflective surfaces that allude to the presence of water within the desert-inspired concept.
Project details
Location Warsaw
Interior Design NOKE Architects
Design Team Karol Pasternak, Piotr Maciaszek, Aleksandra Hyz, Marcin Sudnik
Light sculptures Aureola Studio
Photos courtesy Nate Cook
by AN Shopfitting Magazine no.169 ©