Hearts Dosan

Donggyu Kim

• Arquitectos de Interiores

Hearts Dosan is an upscale hair and makeup studio nestled in the vibrant Gangnam-gu district of Seoul, South Korea. On my first visit, the studio's expansive windows revealed a lush view of Dosan Park, providing a refreshing escape within the bustling urban environment.

True beauty originates from self-care, and I envisioned that those seeking beauty services here could discover a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation amid the beauty of the natural surroundings.

The design of this salon diverges from that of other service spaces in terms of layout. Unlike cafes and restaurants where staff and customers engage in separate activities in the kitchen and dining areas, in a hair salon, services are delivered through direct interaction between customers and hair designers, with shared activity areas. This dynamic presents a challenge, as staff members require an organized workspace while customers desire privacy. Balancing these competing values necessitates a space that accommodates various functions, ensuring customers receive services comfortably with an appropriate level of privacy.

Hearts Dosan has opted for a spatial layout that oscillates between open, expansive areas and narrower corridors, creating a dynamic environment. The high-ceilinged, open spaces, providing panoramic views of the greenery in Dosan Park, house the hair styling zones, offering an opportunity for grooming while basking in nature's serenity. Rather than arranging the hair styling units in a conventional linear manner facing the wall, they are placed in a diagonal formation, resulting in a sculptural and aesthetically pleasing arrangement that prevents customers' gazes from intersecting.

To facilitate seamless transitions between different areas, there are zones where the spacious areas merge into narrower corridors. Visitors undergo a progression from public spaces to private quarters, gaining multiple perspectives of the space. The most secluded shampoo area, where you can indulge in a head spa, is designed with a low ceiling and subdued lighting to enhance relaxation. The makeup zone comprises four private rooms, as well as a fitting room, exuding a cozy and modern ambiance while offering personalized care by skilled professionals.

The predominant walls are adorned with white-based artistic paint, functioning as a canvas for the artistic endeavors of the hair designers as they craft beauty. In one corner, a performance video is showcased on a media wall, injecting vibrancy into the space. Metal furniture and marble patterns serve as striking focal points. High-ceilinged areas are illuminated with barisol lighting to replicate the effect of natural light, while delicate metal panels adorn the ceiling, enhancing its intricate details.