I designed and built Serene Salon and Spa in 2008. Hair salons and spas are very technical in their requirements. In Massachusetts, for example, building department requirements can dictate the actual size of the space based on the number of stations and chairs. 
Research showed me that with the number of stations the client wanted, we could make it work within the 1250 square foot space. But BOY was it tight. Every single inch is accounted for and used wisely.
The challenge that arose was making a functioning and attractive salon within a narrow footprint with many distinct areas: a reception area, point of sale/reception desk station, displays for product. Plus, the different stations of the salon: cutting and coloring stations, manicure station, the washing stations, a treatment room, and an office AND a staff room, It had to feel intimate without being crowded.
I love the design. According to the client, it functions extremely well, remarkably close to the intention.
