Inside the All-Black Salon Larisa Love Built for Colour

Larisa Love Salon opened its doors in Amsterdam’s Jordaan neighbourhood on August 3, 2026. Beauty Hub Magazine interviewed founder Larisa for an exclusive look inside. Larisa, a colorist and salon owner, breaks down the vision behind her all-black, corner-lit space, the challenges that nearly derailed the build, and why she designed the salon to feel like an experience rather than a service.

What was the concept behind your vision for your establishment?

I wanted to create more than a salon. I wanted to create an experience. As an artist, I believe the environment you’re creating is just as important as the art itself. My vision was to blend luxury, fashion, rock & timeless elegance into one space. Every detail was intentionally chosen to inspire creativity while making every guest feel like they’ve stepped into somewhere truly special.

How does your space work with light where it’s required?

Although I chose to design an all-black salon, I knew natural light was non-negotiable. As a colorist, seeing true color is everything. That’s one of the biggest reasons I chose a corner location—it allows natural light to pour in from multiple sides while still maintaining the bold, moody aesthetic I envisioned. I then complemented that with bright, natural-feeling lighting at every station so both my team & guests see hair exactly as it should be. It’s the perfect balance of drama, luxury & functionality.

What made you choose your color scheme, furniture & finishing touches?

I’ve always loved bold design. Black walls, black floors & rich textures create a dramatic backdrop that allows the hair to become the artwork. I balanced that with custom furniture, statement chandeliers & luxurious details that make the space feel elevated without feeling intimidating. I wanted every corner to feel editorial while still being warm & welcoming.

What challenges did you come across building your space?

Where do I even begin? This project tested me in every possible way. There were countless delays, broken promises, unreliable contractors & moments where I questioned if we’d ever open. It pushed me further than any project I’ve ever taken on. But looking back, I’m grateful for every challenge because it taught me resilience. Walking into the finished salon today means so much more because I know exactly what it took to get here.

How did you set up your retail and product storage areas?

I wanted my retail to feel curated, not overwhelming. I chose to stock my favorite Joico products because I genuinely use & believe in every single one of them. Whether a client needs hydration, repair, volume, color protection or styling, there’s something for everyone. I wanted clients to leave not only loving their hair in the salon but also with the right products to recreate that same feeling at home. Behind the scenes, everything is organized for efficiency so my team can focus on creating the best experience possible.

How does your space create a relaxing environment for your guests?

Luxury isn’t just about beautiful furniture. It’s about how a space makes you feel. From the music & lighting to the scent of the salon & the pace of the appointments, everything was designed to help guests slow down & enjoy the experience. I want people to leave feeling just as refreshed emotionally as they do physically.

Did your budget & timeframe go according to plan?

Not even close. We went well over budget & experienced months of unexpected delays. But I refused to compromise the vision. Sometimes building something extraordinary requires patience, resilience & trusting the process, even when it feels impossible. Looking back, every setback made the final result that much more meaningful.

What advice would you give to a salon or spa owner looking to create their own unique space?

Build something that reflects you, not what’s trending. Trends fade, but authenticity never does. Invest in quality where it matters, create an experience instead of just a service & don’t cut corners. Most importantly, expect challenges because they will happen. Your ability to keep moving forward is what ultimately brings your vision to life.