An award-winning team and a groundbreaking new concept is bringing a touch of New York to Christchurch.

Soho Hair Styling in Tuam Street is the South Island's first "loft concept" hair salon, offering clients a sophisticated urban space in which to relax and be transformed. Open for only six months, the salon has attracted some of the city's top young stylists.

Owner Michelle Marsh, who also owns the successful Surreal Hair and Beauty, decided a new salon was in order when Surreal's business began to overflow.

Working with Redken and project manager John Mauger, Michelle designed and created Soho. The salon resembles a New York loft apartment, with floor to ceiling windows, exposed red brick and polished concrete floors, and is located in the heart of Christchurch's burgeoning fashion district.

"My main motivation was to provide a large, practical, clean and open space that also had intimacy, and oozed style and luxury," Michelle says.

Clients can relax in a central lounge area with red leather couches, air freighted international magazines and a giant plasma screen displaying the latest fashion shows.

Also central is the Redken lab, a specialised consultation area showcasing the full range of products and services available at Soho.

Soho works to ensure a very high level of service - even down to the complimentary gourmet coffee, made by trained staff using an espresso machine.

"Going to a salon is quite often the only time a person gets pampered," Michelle says. "For Mums it can be the only time they spend away from their kids. For other clients it's the only time they turn off their cellphones."

All staff are senior stylists. The salon also employs colour technicians and hair extension specialists.

"I am an employer of choice," Michelle says. "People always approach me and I seldom have to advertise for staff. I pay them very generously for a start. I also spend a lot of money on education and training, so we're constantly updating our skills."

Staff choose their own work hours and pay structure, and Michelle encourages them to work no more than 35 hours per week. "We give a lot of ourselves in this business and spend long hours together, so it's important not to overdo it."