The Nail Spa

Custom timber framing and linear storage details.

The Nail Spa – specialising in attention to detail, relaxing zen moments and all-important “me-time”

The Nail Spa brand name, visual identity and retail environment by the UK office of creative agency Design Clarity mirrors the simplicity of this London beauty brand’s ethos; offering simple, beautiful and affordable luxury. A minimalist, calming space designed to reference elements of nature with a restrained and refreshing aesthetic. Urban Retreat the concept embraced by our design team to envisage a calming, casual and uplifting space in contrast to the visual noise of the bustling retail mall environment.

Owner of two other salons, this concept for The Nail Spa was developed specifically with the Westfield Stratford customer and format in mind. With ceilings over 4 meters, the relatively small footprint and Dulux 17GG 40/107 walls give an illusion of generous volume and spaciousness. The central island is a key touchpoint requested by the client housing the main/pedi drying bar, drinks station and essential storage. There’s 8 pedicure stations, 10 manicure stations, custom illuminated nail polish display that showcases over 2000 colours, 1 massage treatment room, 2 x waxing rooms, as well as generous staff and customer amenities. In the reception, we used our go-to indoor plant for busy retailers. The hardy Zanzibar Gem beams vitality and lushness yet thrives on neglect!

Investment in bespoke timber screening and signature brand detailing was a value-add splurge in this super cost-effective and sustainable fitout. All aspects of the design circle around maximising privacy, comfort, express treatments and personalised service for time-poor customers.

Affordable luxury, valuable me-time and the added bonus of an insta-friendly experience to share with friends.

The primary service zone features parallel, solid-surface manicure bars arranged to streamline client flow and maximize therapist efficiency. This linear layout utilizes the long floor plan to create clear pathways. It keeps the high-traffic retail environment organized, spacious, and easy to navigate.

A central island serves as the operational anchor of the floor plan, dividing the manicure and pedicure zones. This placement keeps the high-traffic area orderly while providing direct access to essential services. The layout maximizes floor space while ensuring a natural, fluid flow for both staff and guests.

Integrating living plants brings a vital layer of biophilic design to the calm retail space. Positioned carefully throughout the floor plan, this low-maintenance interior greenery improves the indoor environment. It provides an immediate visual link to nature, offering a relaxing, healthy escape from the surrounding shopping mall.

The full spatial perspective showcases how the different treatment zones work together under a unified, open plan layout. By avoiding solid internal walls, the design maintains full visibility and fluid movement from the entrance to the back. This open setup makes the narrow commercial layout feel welcoming and spacious.

Integrated brand signage replaces traditional applied plastic lettering with permanent, structural material details. Carving directly into the surface establishes a premium, confident corporate identity at the first customer touchpoint. This tactile branding method sets a professional, high-end tone for the rest of the customer wellness experience.

A wide interior perspective highlights the spatial zoning that separates pedicure, drying, and manicure areas. The design balances open sightlines with clear physical division, making the full service menu visible upon entry. This clear organization ensures a seamless and efficient experience for clients and staff alike.

The shopfront entryway utilizes strategic screening to control views from the public mall corridor into the primary service zone. This layout shields clients in the manicure area from passing foot traffic while maintaining an open, sunlit environment. The configuration captures natural light while offering immediate privacy

A dedicated waiting alcove sits near the glass shopfront, using clever spatial design to provide a quiet customer lounge. Built into a small footprint, this seating area offers a comfortable space for arriving guests. The smart layout separates waiting clients from active treatment paths without requiring extra square footage.

A separate treatment room offers a fully enclosed environment for private massage, waxing, and beauty therapies. The interior design shifts away from the open retail floor plan to focus on quiet acoustic comfort. This secluded suite provides a peaceful, intimate sanctuary for clients seeking longer, specialized wellness services.