The Cutting Edge of Barbershop Design: Dual-Axis Analysis and the Latest Trends

～Barber & Apparel Nakamura Shoten's cape selection suggestions～

Introduction

In recent years, the interior design and atmosphere of "barber shops" have gone beyond being just a place to get your hair cut, and are now attracting attention as an "experiential space" that embodies men's lifestyle and culture. If you search for the hashtags #barbershop or #barber on overseas social media sites (such as Pinterest and Instagram), you will find a wide variety of design styles.

So this time, we will compare the interior design of barber shops around the world with two contrasting axes used by experts.

1. Classic (traditional) ↔ Modern (contemporary)
2. Authentic (formal, orthodox) ↔ Casual (casual atmosphere)

We will summarize the changes that have occurred in the 10 years from 2015 to 2025 based on the above information. Please use this as a reference when thinking about creating a space for your barber shop.

In the second half of the article, we will also introduce how to choose and use the "cape (cut cloth)" suggested by Barber & Apparel Nakamura Shoten , an item that goes well with barber shops. Capes are an essential item when cutting hair, and are also an important point in creating the brand image of the entire shop. Why not introduce a cape that suits your space while keeping an eye on trends?

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4 categories of barbershop interiors

By analyzing barbershop examples posted on social media from around the world, we can roughly classify them into the following four categories. (The percentages in parentheses are approximate.)

1. Classic & Authentic (approx. 25%)

   • Decor: Antique-style chairs, wooden panels, classic barber poles, etc.
   • Atmosphere: Following traditional barber culture, with a strong sense of dignity and formality
   • For example: 1920s-style checkered floors, gorgeous vintage chairs, and old posters covering the walls.
   • Characteristics: Many of the shops aim to be "authentic barbershops that make you feel like you've traveled back in time."

2. Classic & Casual (approx. 40%)

   • Interior: Retro accessories and antique chairs are used, while adding a playful element.
   • Atmosphere: A classic atmosphere with a relaxed feel that makes it easy to drop in
   • Example: Leather chairs and brick walls as the base, accented with neon signs and art posters
   • Characteristics: The largest number of stores offer a balance between "tradition and modernity," such as offering craft beer, selling apparel, and fusing music culture.

3. Modern & Authentic (approx. 15%)

   • Interior: Stylish materials such as glass and metal are used, but the barber's traditional rituals (such as hot towel shaving) are emphasized.
   • Atmosphere: A sophisticated yet relaxed space reminiscent of a gentleman's social gathering.
   • Example: Introducing minimalist chairs and lighting, while sticking to classical barber techniques.
   • Characteristics: High-end products that combine luxury and functionality, and express a "classical spirituality" in a contemporary way.

4. Modern & Casual (approx. 20%)

   • Interior: Exposed concrete, neon lights, street art and graffiti
   • Ambiance: Friendly and welcoming, with a cafe/lounge feel
   • Example: A black and white industrial style venue, with colorful murals as the backdrop for DJ events.
   • Characteristics: A store that exudes a cutting-edge feel that is highly compatible with the younger generation and with fashion and music culture

Looking at it this way, we can see that the classic style accounts for the majority at about 65% , and within that, *"neo-classic with a casual element"* is the largest at about 40%. On the other hand, shops that are purely modern only make up about 35% of the total, but even these seem to have gained fans through their casual style.

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How has it changed in the past 10 years? Trends

Around 2015

• This was the time when the barbershop "revival" was finally beginning.
• This pioneering overseas shop differentiates itself by adopting a retro interior reminiscent of the 1920s and 1930s.
• The reputation of the design, with people saying it was "retro and cool," began to spread on social media.
• There is still a mix of barber shops with modern interiors and impersonal salon-style barber shops.

2018-2019

• The "vintage style x lounge-like comfort" style is all the rage.
• There has been a rapid increase in shops that incorporate neon signs and elements of the city's culture, based on Edison bulbs (lighting that looks like bare light bulbs), brick walls, and leather chairs.
• Retro-inspired interiors have become the norm even for brand and chain stores, with classic-style interiors suddenly becoming the majority .
• On the other hand, pure white, inorganic barber shops are shunned, and more individualistic interiors are sought after.

2020-2022

• As the retro boom becomes established, the key to success is "how to create a unique world view."
• "Hybrid styles that effectively incorporate modern elements" are on the rise, and examples of classic chairs coexisting with the latest LED lighting are becoming more prominent on social media.
• Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, attention has been focused on creating hygienic and comfortable spaces , and a certain number of shops have appeared that emphasize minimalist design and cleanliness.

2023-2025

• Barbershops will no longer just provide hairdressing services, but will also become a place for culture and community .
• There has been an accelerating movement to promote "experiential spaces" in stores, such as selling apparel, hosting events, and setting up spots that look good on social media.
• The data also shows that while classic tastes continue to have strong support , a style that exquisitely mixes modern elements and comfort with them is becoming mainstream.
• As the phrase "Heritage meets Hip" symbolizes, the brand is evolving in the direction of "respecting tradition while incorporating a modern sensibility."

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The "Cape" Perspective Proposed by Barber & Apparel Nakamura Shoten

When thinking about the interior design of a barber shop, one thing that is often overlooked is the "cape (cut cloth)" that customers will wear during the treatment. Even if you are particular about the interior design of the walls, chairs, lighting, etc., are you just using a plain cape for now?

The "visual effect" and "brand power" brought about by the cape

• Visual centerpiece : Your client will be wrapped in the cape for the majority of their treatment time, making it more visible than you might expect in photos posted on social media and in the mirror.
• Brand unity : By matching the capes with the color scheme and theme of the entire store, you can create a " unified brand feel throughout the store ."
• Reinforce the worldview : For example, if you have a classic-style shop, using a cape with a vintage logo or striped pattern will deepen the image of the space. For a modern shop, a simple monochrome design or metallic tones will stand out.

Reasons why people choose capes from BarBer & Apparel Nakamura Shoten

1. Wide variety of designs

   • Classical patterns (stripes, checks, retro logos, etc.)
   • Modern patterns (simple monotone, geometric lines, minimal logos, etc.)
   • Neo-vintage (prints based on old barber advertisements, designs using tasteful fonts)
   • This lineup makes it easy for barber shops of any category to consider how it will fit into their space.

2. High quality materials and functionality

   • We use fabric with excellent water-repellent and hair-resistant properties to ensure cleanliness and comfort .
   • The printing technology used makes the product less likely to fade even after washing, so it will stay beautiful for a long time.
   • The size is designed to fit comfortably around your neck, and there are a variety of fasteners to choose from, including snaps and Velcro.

3. Original orders are also possible

   • Adding your store's logo or message will make the branded item feel even more special .
   • We also recommend creating special designs for special events, anniversaries, etc.

Achieve "your own space unification" with Cape

For example, consider the combinations with the four categories mentioned above:

• If you want Classic & Authentic

  • The cape features a retro logo and a "barber pole" icon, further enhancing the nostalgic atmosphere.
  • Choosing a deep color such as dark brown or burgundy will give it an even more profound look.

• If you're looking for a Classic & Casual look

  • The basic look is vintage, but it would be great to incorporate playful illustrations and bright colours into the cape.
  • It also goes well with pop designs that make customers want to post them on social media.

• If you're going for a Modern & Authentic direction,

  • The cape was chosen to create a "clean and luxurious" look, with a focus on simple lines and subdued colors, and the shop logo in a classic emblem-like shape.
  • The simple colors of silver, navy, and black stand out.

• For a modern and casual style

  • Try capes with bold typography, neon sign-style designs, or street graffiti elements.
  • If the interior of your shop is simple, a cape in a bold color can easily become an accent piece.

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Summary: A barber space and a cape create the ideal "total design"

Since 2015, barbershops have become a global trend by combining a return to classic styles with casual, experiential elements. Analysis of posts on social media shows that many shops have adopted vintage-style interiors and relaxing features to promote a unique worldview. Meanwhile, around 30% of the shops are based on modern tastes, and there is a definite pattern of introducing something new while inheriting traditional barbering culture.

Either way, the keywords for barbershops these days are **"attention to design" and "comfortable experience."** The small items that decorate the space, especially tools like capes that are "often overlooked but actually stand out," can be said to be important elements that influence the branding of the shop .

Barber & Apparel Nakamura Shoten will support you

If you're wondering, "I want to renovate the interior of my barber shop, but where should I start?", why not start by introducing or changing a cape ?

• A diverse lineup of designs to match the atmosphere of your store
• High-quality and highly functional fabric
• Original orders and name engraving also available

The capes from Barber & Apparel Nakamura Shoten are sure to bring out the perfection in your ideal barber space. Please check out their official website and catalog. A cap can make a big difference in changing the look of your interior.

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The next step: Give shape to your passion

• Re-examine the entire interior : Is it classic or modern, formal or casual? Try mapping out the current situation with two axes in mind.
• Spruce it up with a cape : Choose a cape that matches your concept and brand colors to take your customer experience to the next level.
• Spread the word : Post photos of your new cape and interior design on social media and spread the word with hashtags like "#BarberShop #BarBer&ApparelNakamuraShoten." This is your chance to spread the word about your shop's new appeal.

The world of barbershops will continue to evolve. However, at its core, there is always the question of how to balance the "tradition of barbering" with the "needs of modern people." Take this opportunity to incorporate a cape from Barber & Apparel Nakamura Shoten and establish the "best style" for your shop.

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If you have any questions about creating a space or capes, please feel free to contact us at any time. Let's bring out the charm of your own barbershop while incorporating the growing global trends of "classic & casual" and "modern & authentic"!