Salon Review: ENA, Covent Garden, London
Kathryn Lewsey
Walking down the busy streets of Holborn, I immediately felt a sense of calm and tranquillity as I stepped into Ena, a hair and beauty salon located at the top of Great Queen Street and just a few metres away from the hustle and bustle of Covent Garden.
Forget your usual salon layout, Ena spans out over the three floors of a beautiful town house, complete with the original fireplaces from the building. The eco-friendly mantra of Ena fits in perfectly with the interior of the salon, featuring ornate panels, reclaimed furniture and large windows. Overall, the salon has a cool, laidback vibe and airy, clean cut finish.
Due for a colour with the Colour Director Madeline Murphy, I was taken to the second floor of the salon and settled down to discuss what I wanted from my tresses. We decided on keeping with the natural chestnut shade of the hair, but also adding a few caramel toned strands for a warmer feel – ideal for the upcoming summer. Madeline expertly applied the hue through my locks while we had a good old natter, before leaving me with a few mags to enjoy while waiting for it to develop.
Once the time was up, I was taken to the washing room, which is probably my most favourite part of Ena. Featuring four hair washing sinks and chairs, this dimly lit room had a relaxing and soothing feel, especially with the addition of a few candles. When leaning back to have your mane washed, you’re treated to an amazing illustrated ceiling of birds and flowers – it certainly made a change from the usual plain white ceilings you’re forced to gawp at.
My hair was washed with the totally lush smelling Davines products, which Ena is the flagship salon for. This premium and natural Italian haircare brand also runs a training academy on the third floor, where all staff and students are trained before even working at Ena.
Next was the cut, which was carried out by Master Stylist Jonathan Corby. We agreed on snipping away an inch in length to get rid of those dreaded split ends, while adding a few layers into the shape for a lighter and manageable finish. Jonathan demonstrated his knowledge and passion for hair by precisely cutting my locks while chatting about how I can look after my hair more.
I picked up a few tips along the way, such as after shampooing hair, scrunch dry it with kitchen roll to absorb excess water before conditioning – as hair takes to conditioner much better when not soaking wet.
Jonathan then applied a gorgeous Davines Oi Oil and Relaxing Fluid on to my tresses, before professionally drying them into a sleek and shiny finish. Needless to say, I was ecstatic with the result – my dull, lifeless hair had been transformed into glossy, vibrant and feather-light tresses.
Everything about Ena was personal and intimate, from the pictures of staff when they were children scattered around the salon, to the delicious herbal teas and homemade Ferrero Rochers on offers. They even give out handy cards for customers, which feature a step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect blow-dry!
I was thoroughly impressed with the service and results of the chic and minimalistic salon.
Review: Kathryn Lewsey