Qiyu Hair Salon by FATHOM: A Harmonious Fusion of Space and Lifestyle

A Contemporary Hair Salon in Hiroshima that Bridges Two CitiesDesigned by the architectural firm FATHOM, Qiyu Hair Salon is a meticulously crafted 45-square-meter space that encapsulates the unique lifestyle of its owners—a couple managing both a modelling and hairstyling business between Tokyo and Hiroshima. With separate bases in two cities, their time together is limited, prompting the idea of embedding their dual-location lifestyle into the salon’s design.

A Hidden Gem in Hiroshima’s Urban Fabric

Tucked away on the fifth floor of a discreet building along Namiki-dori, one of Hiroshima’s vibrant commercial streets, Qiyu Hair Salon challenges conventional retail visibility. Its entrance, positioned within a small communal space off the elevator, offers an element of discovery—an intentional contrast to typical street-level salons. The architects sought to create an immersive experience where, from the moment a visitor steps inside, they are transported into the couple’s curated aesthetic world.

Maximizing Space with Thoughtful Spatial Planning

Despite the salon’s compact footprint, FATHOM strategically incorporated four cutting stations and two shampoo units, optimizing both functionality and flow. The reception counter, positioned at the entrance, was designed as a floating element, allowing for a dynamic, multipurpose space. Named “the yuqi table,” this adaptable area serves not only as a reception desk but also as a flexible platform for pop-up events and creative experiments when the wife returns from Tokyo.

The cloakroom, constructed from transparent acrylic, enhances the sense of openness, preventing the space from feeling cluttered despite the presence of essential salon furnishings such as chairs and counters.

A Structural Design that Symbolizes Connection

A defining feature of the salon is its custom H-shaped timber frame, inspired by the industrial H-beam steel structure. This structural element supports the yuqi table counter while seamlessly integrating functional elements such as suspended mirrors, electrical sockets, and storage solutions. The frame metaphorically represents the couple’s connection—despite their physical distance, their work converges in this shared creative hub. The architects envisioned the electrical current within the frame as a symbolic “lifeblood,” reinforcing the sense of unity and collaboration between the two professionals.

Blending Business with a Unique Lifestyle Culture

Upon entering Qiyu Hair Salon, visitors witness more than just a hairdressing space—they experience a narrative of two individuals bridging geographical gaps through their craft. This project is more than a salon; it’s an evolving cultural hub that blends personal and professional life. By establishing a base in Hiroshima, the couple is pioneering a new work-life model that merges creativity, business, and mobility. Their presence enriches the local landscape, adding a distinctive layer of urban culture to Hiroshima’s evolving identity.