Step into the world of Michelle, the visionary behind Cocobelle Beauty, as she reveals how a collaboration with The Escapist & Co turned her business environment into a powerful reflection of her brand. In our exclusive feature, Michelle opens up about her journey, showcasing how our bespoke design not only transformed her workspace but also elevated her entrepreneurial success and transformed her business environment into a haven of inspiration and well-being. Learn how the carefully curated design elements have fostered a more vibrant, productive atmosphere, creating a positive ripple effect that elevates both employee satisfaction and client interactions.
What is the meaning behind the name Cocobelle Beauty?
The name Cocobelle Beauty came to birth whilst on a Sunday drive with my husband. I wanted it to have meaning and be easy to remember. My Mum was born in Mauritius and coconut trees are absolutely everywhere and they are something you find on a holiday, somewhere tropical and an escape from reality. And Belle is what my husband would call me while we were dating. It is French for beauty. And that’s how I came up with the name.
What do you find the most rewarding aspects of running a Beauty salon?
Running your own business is extremely rewarding especially overcoming its trials and tribulations. I have loved watching the salon grow from a one man band (myself) to now having a team of five. I also feel extremely fortunate creating a work environment where we have so much fun while doing something we are passionate about. And of course being a part of people’s skin journeys and making people feel beautiful is the icing on top.
How has the transformation of your space impacted the well-being and productivity of your team, and what feedback have you received from clients about the new environment?
Our space has created a haven not only for our clients but for my team. We are able to perform the treatments in an environment that makes us feel calm and present with the use of colours and finishes that Christie helped choose for us.
We have maximised the space to allow for plenty of shelving so it’s very clean, tidy and without clutter unlike our first space. The original salon was very small and we found working there overwhelming because we had outgrown it.
Clients have nothing but wonderful things to say about the space even two years on.
Reflecting on the completed project, what specific design elements or features stand out to you as pivotal in creating a space that fosters both inspiration and well-being?
I feel lighting, colours and soft furnishes and have helped elevate the space. The design brief for the salon was warm, inviting, tidy but not clinical and cold and Christie got it spot on. The stand out features for me is the pendant lighting, front desk and cabinetry.
How has the new environment at Cocobelle Beauty become more than just a workspace—how has it become a haven of inspiration and a reflection of your brand’s ethos?
The salon is more than just a workspace for us. It was designed with the client in mind but also the practicality and workability for my team. When working in a space that embodies beauty, great energy and tranquility we are able to perform the best treatments for our clients.
What role did the collaborative process with The Escapist & Co play in achieving the final design? How did their approach align with your goals and enhance the overall outcome?
Christie was very detailed and knowledgeable throughout the entire design process. The functionality was always at the forefront of her mind while creating an aesthetically beautiful space. Having never built a commercial space before I had no knowledge of the process involved. I felt very fortunate having Christie’s expertise and guidance to help me make those hard decisions. Especially when it came to spatial planning and creating the finishes. I would have been lost without her.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs considering a design transformation for their business spaces, based on your experience?
I would only ever work with a designer when it came to building and creating a commercial or residential space. Just like I say to my clients, trust the professionals as it’s what we do day in and day out. If you’re lucky to create a space it’s something you want to do properly the first time and having the support from a designer helps to alleviate a lot of the pressure and helps with the big decision making. That’s why I know this salon is credit to Christie. Her dedication and attention to detail made every step so enjoyable.
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