An interview with Salon Furniture founder Kirsty Giles, first published in Beauty NZ Magazine (Design & Style, part one of a two-part series).
In today’s beauty and wellness landscape, clients expect more than exceptional treatments. They seek welcoming spaces that make them feel comfortable and valued the moment they walk through the door. While design trends come and go, thoughtfully selected furniture remains one of the most important investments a beauty business can make. Beyond aesthetics, purpose-designed salon and spa furniture supports client comfort, staff wellbeing, workflow efficiency and the overall perception of professionalism and quality.
For more than a decade, Salon Furniture has helped New Zealand salon, spa and wellness professionals create spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. Led by Kirsty Giles, the independently owned company has earned a reputation for understanding the unique needs of beauty businesses and guiding owners through every stage of their fit-out journey. In this interview, Kirsty shares her insights on the evolution of salon and spa design, common fit-out mistakes to avoid, and why investing in quality, purpose-designed furniture has a lasting impact on both client satisfaction and business success.
The story behind Salon Furniture: independently NZ owned since 2014
Salon Furniture has been an independently owned New Zealand business since 2014. Can you share the story behind the company, how it has evolved and what sets it apart within the industry?
We purchased the business from international brand HBA Salon Equipment, which established its New Zealand operation in 2010. They identified that there was very little competition in New Zealand at the time for quality, well-priced salon and beauty furniture. During those first four years, they built a solid client base and strong reputation within the industry. One of the key points of difference was having stock readily available in New Zealand, meaning clients didn’t have to wait months for products to arrive from overseas. We have continued to build on that foundation, expanding our product range and expertise while maintaining a strong focus on customer service and industry knowledge.
Kirsty’s journey into the beauty and spa industry
Tell us a little about your own journey. What sparked your passion for the beauty and spa industry, and what do you enjoy most about helping salon and spa owners create exceptional spaces?
I managed the business for HBA, and while my background was primarily in administration, I had extensive customer service experience across a variety of industries. The hair and beauty sector presented an exciting new opportunity for me. What I enjoy most is working closely with our clients and helping them bring their vision to life. Seeing a salon or spa evolve from an idea into a beautiful, functional space is incredibly rewarding.
How salon and spa spaces have changed in the last ten years
How have you seen salon and spa environments evolve over the past decade?
There has been a significant shift towards creating spaces that are both beautiful and highly functional. Many businesses are now offering multiple services under one roof, creating a true “one-stop-shop” experience. There is also a much stronger emphasis on client comfort, wellbeing, and creating memorable experiences that encourage repeat visits.
Why the physical environment drives loyalty
In your experience, how much impact does the physical environment have on client perception, customer loyalty, and overall business success?
From my own perspective, feeling welcomed, pampered and comfortable in a beautiful setting makes all the difference. The environment plays a huge role in shaping first impressions and influences whether a client feels valued and wants to return. When clients leave feeling appreciated, relaxed and looking their best, they’re much more likely to become loyal customers.
The biggest fit-out mistake: starting without a plan
What are some of the biggest challenges salon and spa owners face when trying to create spaces that are both highly functional and visually appealing?
One of the biggest challenges is not having a clear vision or plan from the outset. Owners can often feel overwhelmed when choosing furniture, colours and décor that not only reflect their brand but also function effectively for their day-to-day operations. Achieving the right balance between aesthetics, comfort and practicality is key.
Design that reflects your brand
How important is it for a salon or spa’s interior design to reflect its unique brand identity, target market, and service offering?
I believe it’s extremely important. Every salon owner wants to stand out from the competition. From the moment a client walks through the door, the space should communicate the salon’s personality, values and level of service. A well-designed environment helps attract the right clientele and reinforces the overall brand experience.
Part Two of the Beauty NZ series shares Kirsty’s tips and advice around salon design, and clever hacks for your space. We will publish it here as soon as it is out.
About Kirsty Giles and Salon Furniture
Kirsty Giles is the founder and owner of Salon Furniture, an independently owned New Zealand supplier of hair salon, barber, beauty and medical furniture based in East Tamaki, Auckland. Kirsty managed the New Zealand business for HBA Salon Equipment before purchasing it in 2014. Salon Furniture holds stock in New Zealand and delivers nationwide and to the Pacific Islands. Showroom: 17 Allens Road, East Tamaki, Auckland 2013, open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Phone 0800 890 027.
Frequently asked questions
Is Salon Furniture a New Zealand owned company?
Yes. Salon Furniture has been independently New Zealand owned and operated since 2014. The business began in 2010 as the New Zealand operation of HBA Salon Equipment and was purchased by Rod and Kirsty Giles in 2014. Kirsty managed the business for HBA Salon Equipment.
Do you hold stock in New Zealand or is everything shipped from overseas?
We hold stock in New Zealand. It has been a point of difference since the beginning: clients don’t have to wait months for products to arrive from overseas.
Where is your showroom and can I visit?
Our showroom is at 17 Allens Road, East Tamaki, Auckland 2013, open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.
Do you deliver outside Auckland?
Yes. We deliver throughout New Zealand, including the South Island, and to the Pacific Islands.
What types of businesses do you supply?
Hair salons, barbershops, beauty therapists and skin clinics, spas, tattoo studios and medical clinics.
Planning a fit-out? Visit the showroom in East Tamaki or call 0800 890 027. Browse our furniture range, or contact us for a quote.
Interview originally published in Beauty NZ Magazine, July 2026 issue, Design & Style section (pages 40-41). Republished with permission. Read the original issue.
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