The beauty industry in the US – especially the nail industry – is not only a profession, but also a source of pride for the Vietnamese community. On the journey of designing a series of nail salons in big cities like Los Angeles, Houston or Dallas, I have had the opportunity to accompany many passionate salon owners. And one thing I always remember: interior design not only makes the space “more beautiful”, but also contributes to building a brand, enhancing services and creating a truly valuable customer experience.

Below are detailed shares from my practical experience – through a nail salon project recently implemented in the US, with a modern, luxurious spirit and especially suitable for local tastes.

1. Nail salons are no longer salons – they are “experiences”

American customers are increasingly demanding, not only about nail techniques but also about the feelings when entering the salon. They are not simply looking for a place to get their nails done, but a place to “be taken care of”, relax, and even… escape from the noisy world out there for 1-2 hours.

So in design, we have to put ourselves in the shoes of the guests:

• What do they see first when they walk in the door?
• Is the lighting warm and soft?
• Are the seats comfortable? Are the scents pleasant?
• Is there a waiting area where guests can sit comfortably with a cup of tea

All of these need to be taken into account, because the first impression determines 70% of the possibility of them coming back.

2. Aesthetic design is not enough – smooth operation is also necessary

As a designer, I know that functionality is vital. A shop can look beautiful in photos – but if customers have trouble moving around, employees have difficulty operating, or the shop owner cannot control the flow of operations, it is a failure.

Therefore, in design, I always prioritize:

• Reasonable traffic flow between reception desk – manicure area – foot spa area – toilet.
• Optimize working light at nail table positions, do not let staff work in the shadow or light with the wrong color temperature.
• Arrange smart hidden storage – so that customers do not have to see messy towels, inventory or chemicals.

A well-run nail salon is about more than just convenience – it’s about professionalism that customers subconsciously perceive.

3. Interior style: Minimalism does not mean monotony

In my most recent project – LUMI Nail Lounge, I chose a neutral color palette with a marble floor, accented with gold-plated mirrors, modern pendant lights and soft LED downlights. The goal was to create an elegant, bright space that would not look dated after a few years.

The focal point of a design doesn’t have to be ostentatious – it could be the way light casts shadows on a marble wall, the shape of a modern spa chair, or a uniquely designed lamp.

A note for Vietnamese shop owners:

Avoid overusing colors and classic details. Most local customers like minimalism, clarity, “clean” and high-end. Space also needs to have a stopping point – know where to leave space to highlight the content.

 

4. Reception – the place to position the brand at first sight

The reception area is the “first handshake” with the guests. In the recent design, I placed the logo glowing with warm white LED on a dark stone background, combined with mirror details and a “floating” cabinet system to create a light, luxurious feeling.

This is not only a check-in place – but also a brand statement:

“We do more than just nails. We create experiences.”

Many salon owners often overlook this area, while in fact it is the place to create a first impression and convey professionalism. Invest in the reception area properly.

5. Some advice specifically for Vietnamese people designing nail salons in the US

• Choose materials that are easy to clean but look luxurious: đá porcelain vân đá, laminate Dark wood color, stainless steel plated with PVD champagne gold are both beautiful and durable choices.
• Don’t spare money on lighting and scent systems: They are “invisible” elements but extremely effective in creating emotions.
• Carefully prepare interior documents – avoid post-construction repairs: The installation of electrical systems, water pipes, and spa chairs must be standard from the drawings – to avoid future problems and damage.
• Always work with workers/construction teams that understand American culture: Beautiful design but construction that does not meet American standards (for example, electricity – water – ADA) will cause trouble later.

Interior design is not just about beauty – it is a long-term investment

Nail salon design is not a cost – it is a profitable investment. A beautiful, reasonable, standard space – will retain customers, increase service value and especially enhance your brand image.

As an interior designer who has worked with many Vietnamese nail salons in the US, I always want to bring a space that is not only “beautiful” but also touches emotions, enhances the experience and makes every customer who enters want to come back.

If you are planning to upgrade your salon – I am always ready to listen and plan with you from the first drawing.