Fabrik

Open for over a decade at another location just done the road, Fabrik has really come into a league of its own in its contemporary digs down Riverbank Lane.

Bulb lighting, wide mirrors, polished wood, floor-to-ceiling windows that provide loads of natural light, copper and brass joinery, and raw concrete elements - this hair salon ticks all the boxes when it comes to aesthetics. It’s important to co-owners Jamie and Tracey Dryden that the salon feels welcoming to everyone, hence the communal table for waiting guests, the fresh pots of flowers (sourced from local growers) and the pot plants on the dressers. Jamie, founder and director of Fabrik, has plenty of experience - more than 20 years in the industry - having also worked in Edinburgh and Auckland.

Striving to appeal to the conscientious consumer, Fabrik uses only luxe brands that are free from harsh chemicals and are ethical and environmentally friendly; O&M and Kevin Murphy being the go-to for hair products and services. Using bio towels instead of cotton ones (which are taken home and composted) is another sustainable move, and all the leftover recycled tinfoil scraps, plastic and paper are sent to the recycling station. Looking for an up-do for a special occasion? Fabrik offers this as well as creative work for photo shoots.

Make sure you’re well-hydrated while you’re waiting on your cut or colour with a hot drink from the salon’s menu - they use local Rocket Coffee Roasters' beans and New Zealand-made Forage + Bloom organic tea. If you’re after something a bit more you can order food and drink from Café Kopi just down the lane, who will deliver it to you in the salon.

Promising ‘pure hair for real people’ Fabrik is not so much about audacious colour and cuts, as it is about celebrating the beautiful and unique array of natural hairstyles that walk through the door, managing to be both elegant and edgy all at the same time.