25-06-2025
A tiny Adelaide hair salon is making waves globally for a very unexpected reason
An Adelaide hair salon is officially one of the most beautiful in the world, and now the global beauty scene knows it too.
Surprisingly, it's not their A-list clientele or viral mane transformations turning heads, it's the jaw-dropping new fit-out.
Fön Salon's chic and serene space, nestled on King William Road in the leafy suburb of Goodwood South Australia, has just been named one of the Top 100 Salons in the World for Interior Design and Aesthetics.
The prestigious announcement comes off the back of the One Shot Global Hair Awards, hosted by industry authority Behind The Chair.
Handpicked from a flood of international entries, Fön's dreamy European-inspired interiors and heritage-meets-modern design caught the eyes of judges immediately.
One look at the arched mirrors, statement marble bench and jaw-dropping pendant lighting makes it clear why.
Salon owner and creative force Alex Collicelli, told FEMAIL that the honour is a full-circle moment for the business, which started as a small six-chair studio and has since evolved into a luxe 16-chair destination.
'We're incredibly proud to be named among the Top 100 Salons in the world for Salon Decor and Aesthetics,' she said. 'To be selected from such an inspiring global pool of talent is a huge honour.'
The prestigious announcement comes off the back of the One Shot Global Hair Awards, hosted by industry authority Behind The Chair
Despite having been in the hair industry for 18 years, this is the first time Alex has entered the competition, and the salon's debut is already making waves. She'll be flying the flag for South Australia at the glitzy awards night in August.
'Yes, we'll be there. It's such a huge celebration of the global hair community and the creativity within it. We can't wait to represent Adelaide on that stage.'
The salon's interior is a love letter to European luxury, blended with the soul of the building's rich history.
In fact, the space was once home to the much-loved Spats Café, a very sentimental location where Alex and her husband once had their early dates.
'The inspiration came from the building itself. We fell in love with the heritage site.
'We preserved the historic frontage while introducing a modern aesthetic to the rear of the building. Elements like the arched mirrors reflect that blend of old and new.'
The fit-out was completed in August 2024, and while Alex prefers not to reveal the exact cost, she confirms it was a 'significant' investment, with function and feeling front and centre.
From the original commercial real estate photo's the previous fit-out was dated, rundown and dark, with maroon coloured walls and tired wood panelling.
'It was never just about how the salon looked, it was about creating a space that was refined, welcoming, and truly functional for both our team and our clients.'
Designed in collaboration with Adelaide-based Arc Two Architects, the space is a visual feast of natural textures, Mediterranean minimalism, and luxury statement pieces.
It even includes a stunning 12-piece Falling Leaves pendant and a huge custom skylight that bathes the salon in natural light.
'There are so many [aspects I love]! But the marble bench where clients can work while getting their hair done is a standout.
Designed in collaboration with Adelaide-based Arc Two Architects, the space is a visual feast of natural textures, Mediterranean minimalism, and luxury statement pieces
The space was once home to the much-loved Spats Café, a very sentimental location where Alex (pictured) and her husband once had their early dates
'Our massive custom circular skylight is always a talking point. Clients often say it feels like a retreat, and that means everything to us.'
Beyond its undeniable beauty, Fön also stands apart for its progressive salon culture and service offerings.
From gender-neutral pricing and makeup services, they also offer wellness days and partnerships with EOS Hotel and sustainable brand Davines.
'We've always wanted to create an experience, not just a service.
For us, luxury is about quality, care, and how someone feels when they're in the space.'
With the awards ceremony fast approaching in August, Alex and her team are preparing to fly to Los Angeles to represent not just Adelaide, but the broader Australian creative community on a world stage.
'Taking out the top spot would be a very proud moment for our entire team,' Alex added. 'So much heart and thought went into creating our new space… Every decision was made with care and intention.'
That sense of intentionality flows through every corner of the salon, from the sweeping marble workstations where clients can sip a cocktail or take a Zoom call mid-colour, to the carefully chosen pendant lighting and warm, natural textures that create a sense of calm the moment you walk in.
And if the global spotlight is anything to go by, that vision is well and truly being realised.
The One Shot Global Hair Awards are to 'celebrates the work of hairdressers doing real hair behind the chair,' according to their website.
The winning categories include: colour, cutting, styling, overall, video and still-life image collections, with 2025's entries now officially closed.
