How Much Space You Need for Your Services

Selecting the right salon suite size can make or break your day-to-day operations. If the space is too small, it may limit your service options or feel uncomfortable during appointments. Too large, and you could be overpaying for square footage you don’t really use. It’s important to strike a balance between form, function, and future growth. Your space should support the services you offer, provide comfort for your clients, and align with your workflow from the moment someone walks through the door.

Consider the Services You Provide

Start by reviewing your full menu of services. A hairstylist will likely need more space than a brow artist. You’ll want room for a styling chair, shampoo bowl, product cart, mirror, and possibly a color mixing area. If you're a lash technician, esthetician, or brow specialist, your main focus will be a treatment bed, lighting, and sanitation station. Massage therapists need extra room to move around the table and set the tone for a calm, uninterrupted session.

Think through the tools you use most, how often you restock products, and whether you need separate areas for multiple parts of your service. Matching your space to your actual service flow ensures better efficiency and comfort.

Movement and Flow Should Feel Effortless

It’s easy to underestimate how much room you actually need until you’re mid-appointment trying to sidestep cords or reach for tools. Your suite should give you enough room to move freely, access storage, and shift between tasks without feeling cramped. There should also be enough space for clients to sit, relax, and feel comfortable during their visit.

A good way to test this is by visualizing your busiest day. Would the space still feel functional and peaceful if you had back-to-back appointments and multiple setups to manage?

Don’t Overlook Storage Needs

Storage often gets overlooked during tours, but it’s one of the most important parts of a successful setup. You’ll need space for towels, backbar products, tools, retail displays, and personal items. If the suite doesn’t include built-in storage, make sure there's room to bring in your own solutions like rolling carts, shelves, or wall-mounted organizers.

You should also think about how often you’ll be restocking and whether your suite can hold a full week’s worth of supplies, or just a day or two at a time. The right setup keeps your space tidy and functional without disrupting your design.

Prioritize Client Experience and Comfort

Even in smaller suites, client comfort is non-negotiable. Make sure there’s space for them to enter, hang their belongings, and enjoy their service without feeling crowded. If your appointments tend to run long or are detail-focused—like lash sets or color transformations, clients will appreciate thoughtful layout and ambiance.

Think about where they will sit, what they will see, and how they will feel from start to finish. This is your opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind experience that keeps them coming back.

Leave Room to Grow

It’s tempting to pick the smallest suite to save on rent, but think about what your business might look like six months from now. Are you planning to introduce new services, retail items, or equipment? Will your average appointment length increase? Will you want more space to shoot content or hold consultations?

A suite that feels slightly larger than you need today might be the perfect fit a few months down the road. Planning ahead can save you from having to move or make compromises too soon.

Find the Right Fit at STL Aesthetics

Every beauty professional has different space needs, which is why STL Aesthetics offers salon suites in a range of sizes and layouts. Whether you're launching a solo business or upgrading your current setup, we’ll help you choose a suite that supports your services, reflects your brand, and gives you room to grow.

If you're unsure how much salon suite size is right for your business, contact STL Aesthetics today to tour our available spaces and explore your options.