We review our manicure experience at the King’s Road salon, and delve into the brilliant mind of Juanita Huber-Millet, founder and creative director of the Townhouse nail empire.
Review of Townhouse Kings Road
We love nothing more than sporting a fresh manicure, and we consider ourselves to be very well versed in the nail realm, but Townhouse blew even us away.
Last week we had the pleasure of visiting Townhouse on the King’s Road. We waved goodbye to our very envious team and made the short walk to the salon for our evening of pampering. Townhouse are famous for their chic interiors (iykyk), but for those who aren’t privy to this, expect neutrals, soft baby pinks and an ambience that is pretty unmatched.
Upon arrival we were offered a drink at the ‘nail bar’ (rosé of course) while we made the difficult decision of choosing a design. Townhouse offers a year-round ‘Classic Collection‘ which showcases six timeless designs, in addition to their ‘Bridal Collection’ and their ‘Seasonal Collections’ which launch every six months for Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter. We opted for designs that reflected our personalities, with one of us deciding on a bold orange french tip and the other a chic shimmery nude.
No details were spared during our manicure, with very element from the nail prep to the painting executed meticulously. The girls in the salon were a delight and made our experience so special due to their personable and highly professional nature. Townhouse truly has mastered the artistry of nail care, and we can’t wait to be back in the salon.
After our manicure, we had the pleasure of interviewing Juanita Huber-Millet, the founder and creative director of Townhouse who told us how to look after our natural nails, her ultimate bridal nail looks and the story of how she revolutionised the nail industry.
An interview with Juanita Huber-Millet, founder of Townhouse
What inspired the idea for Townhouse?
I love beauty and I always have – from a young age playing with my sister’s lipsticks and trying on my mother’s signature blue nail varnish. I have been an avid nail devotee since I can remember however, I always struggled to find a nail salon I could trust.
The service wasn’t particularly professional, the salons were often messy and disorganised, plus the treatment quality was really all over the place – if you were lucky, you would get someone great but if they were on holiday, the next person might be terrible. In short, I was disappointed by the nail salons that were out there, not just the experience as a customer but also the way they treated their staff.
Townhouse was created with the goal of elevating the nail salon experience with a mission to revolutionise the industry. I wanted to create a beautiful oasis for customers, with stylish interiors, five-star customer care, reliable treatments with flawless results that last, the latest technology, stylish nail art looks and importantly a place that creates real, meaningful career opportunities for the team members.
It seems that nails and manicures are bigger than ever, why do you think more and more people are investing money in their nails?
Having your nails on point is a beautiful and simple statement of style. And while nails are all over social media now, you don’t need to be a TikTok star or Instagram influencer. No matter whether you go for a clean-girl mani, a bold colour or some understated nail art – nails have really become the new accessory.
What sets Townhouse apart from other nail salons?
It’s about the full customer experience from start to finish, from seamless online bookings to stylish interiors. My goal when launching Townhouse was to create a relaxing space with buzzy feel, cool lounge bar music and nail technicians who are professional and with repeatably impeccable treatment every time.
Cleanliness is integral to our business. This seemingly small aspect is so essential in creating trust and loyalty from customers. We sterilise all our metal tools in a hospital-grade autoclave (similar to that which your surgeon would use) and all other tools are single-use – and either given to the client for home use or recycled. I believe impeccable hygiene standards is a basic requirement of nail salons, customers wouldn’t accept anything less from any other industry.
We also love to bring something new and exciting to our customers. So, we also regularly partner with amazing brands for limited-edition collaborations, from Townhouse x Givenchy to Chantecaille and most recently Caudalie and Elemis.
All About Nail Care
What do you think is the most important step in caring for natural nails?
Above all else, the most effective thing is to keep your hands moisturised and use cuticle oil at least once a day. Nails grow from the nail bed and looking after your cuticles means healthier nails as they grow out. Salon professional strengthening product IBX is also a fantastic treatment to promote nailbed health – this product transformed my nails.
What nail routine would you advise for bright and healthy nails? Which products would you recommend?
Firstly, I would recommend visiting a professional salon for routine Manicures and Pedicures, this will keep your hands and feet feeling and looking in top shape. Secondly, moisture, moisture, moisture. Townhouse Cuticle oil and the Chanel La Crème Main hand cream are my go-to products.
The 2023 Nail Trends You Need To Know
What nail designs will be big this summer?
This summer, the minimal aesthetic is going to be a popular theme for nail art – this trend takes inspo from the pair-back, ‘clean girl’ aesthetic trending across beauty and makeup – popularised by celebs and beauty influencers including Hailey Bieber, Bella Hadid, Nam Vo and Jess Hunt.
To nail this trend for summer, go for a natural sheer colour polish with an accent of nail art, we’re loving chic animal prints, delicate florals and eye-catching metallic accents.
What are your predictions for the biggest nail colour trends for summer 2023?
Bold and vibrant hues will be all the rage this summer… Think electric blues, sunny yellows, crisp greens, and magenta pinks. These are going to be the ‘it’ colours of the season, perfectly capturing the carefree and fun-loving essence of summer. Whether you’re a fashionista or just looking for some fun nail colours to wear this summer, these beautiful hues will act like a burst of sunshine on your fingertips and make a statement wherever you go.
Bridal Nails
Which colours and nail designs work well for wedding guests?
Classic and timeless shades work well for wedding guests; nudes, beige and soft pinks are always a safe bet. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, go for a nail art design to add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your look.
For something stylish but chic, I would recommend going for a delicate dot or simple floral design. For those looking for something chic but a little bolder, try a French tip with a twist – opt for a bright colour or metallic tip to make a statement. This season it’s all about stylish accents and making your nails the ultimate fashion accessory.
What’s the most common request for bridal nails?
At Townhouse, the most popular request for bridal nails is the classic French manicure. It’s timeless, elegant, and beautifully complements every style of wedding dress. Another ever-popular bridal look is sheer, natural nails – this understated look is perfect with a neutral shade of pink, beige or milky white.
Some brides also love to add a touch of glamour to their nails with a chrome finish or dainty nail art accents – this is a fun way to add a little individuality to your bridal look. Ultimately, the classic French manicure tends to be a perennial favourite among brides and is a personal favourite of mine!
Have you spotted any new trends that you think will be big for brides?
This season is all about understated designs and minimalist nail art, the biggest bridal trend is a reverse French or delicate floral. Perfect for brides who want to add a subtle touch of personality to their nails.
When would you recommend someone get their nails done pre wedding?
I would recommend booking your appointment 1-2 days before the wedding, this will ensure your manicure is fresh for the big day. Remember, moisturise, moisturise, moisturise ahead of the big day.
Read More:
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- The Best Fake Tans to Guarantee a Wedding Day Glow
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