Field Paoli

A palette of sustainably-harvested — and some living — materials showcases a range of toxin-free, natural, and organic products.

Always looking for exciting new ways to attract customers, Whole Foods is branching out into new territories. Following a collection of successful in-store Tap Room and Wellness Center openings, we again had the opportunity to rethink the role of the grocery store, with the first ever Whole Body Salon. Touting products and practices that meet the strict quality standards that have made Whole Foods Market the leader in the organic food industry, the new Whole Body Salon fits into a small pack of nail salons leading the country in sustainable and healthy practices.

The new store, sitting adjacent to a traditional Whole Foods Market in the suburban city of Campbell, offers everything their current Whole Body Departments have (health and beauty) as well as a book store and self-help reference desk, cosmetics consulting including a state-of-the-art skin scanning system, and a full-service nail salon.

Our challenge was to create a healthy environment housing what is commonly considered a toxic practice. We aimed to take our design above and beyond regulations, and also to make a statement of our client’s values. A ventilation system specifically designed to remove fumes from nail stations below the breathing zone hides behind a row of cushy arm chairs. Ipads replace gossip magazines at the live-edge wooden slab drying table. Bowls filled with water and flower petals replace the common foot spas and the health hazards that come with them. Reusable tools are sterilized in an autoclave, utilizing high pressure, rather than harsh chemicals. Below the chevron-patterned reclaimed barn wood ceiling, a wall of live moss freshens the air and lightens the environment, while making a clear statement of the salon’s sustainable values.

The Whole Body Salon makes a case for the social role of the market-place, creating a space for gathering, learning, and sharing. The children’s area, featuring toxin-free toys and organic clothing, offers parents the freedom to thoroughly explore the book section, and the reference desk allows customers to sit and explore the materials in depth. A full-service cosmetics department and extremely knowledgeable staff offer customers the guidance they crave as health-conscious shoppers. The salon, given a feeling of separation from the retail environment by a wall of brightly-colored suspended shutters, provides a tranquil environment fit for a group outing or individual spa day. With rave reviews on Yelp and a considerable buzz in the blog world, it’s safe to say that the Whole Body Salon – which was fully booked within the first week of opening – is filling a desired niche within the community.

Katie Handy is an Associate at Field Paoli and a core member of the Whole Foods Market team. She has contributed to a variety of design features including the custom bulk food fixtures and the Bier Garten at the new Whole Foods Market in Folsom, CA.