Old School Barbers – A Bespoke Barber Shop Interior Design in Newtown by KENURO Architects

A Timeless Sanctuary: Blending Victorian Elegance with Modern Barbering in Sydney’s Inner West

When the passionate owners of Old School Barbers first walked into our Sydney studio, they carried with them a dream—to create more than just a barber shop, but a refined retreat where tradition and modernity converged. Nestled in the eclectic suburb of Newtown, known for its vibrant culture and heritage charm, this project demanded a design that balanced classic sophistication with contemporary functionality.

At KENURO Architects, we specialise in crafting spaces that tell a story, and Old School Barbers was no exception. The brief was clear: a luxurious yet masculine interior featuring four bespoke barber chairs, a rich palette of dark navy blue and crisp white, premium Calacatta marble surfaces, and elegant Victorian-inspired detailing. The challenge? To transform a compact, unassuming storefront into a high-end grooming destination that felt both timeless and inviting.

The Design Narrative: Where Heritage Meets Modern Craftsmanship

Our design philosophy revolves around materiality, light, and spatial harmony, and this project became a perfect canvas to explore these principles.

1. A Luxurious Material Palette

• Calacatta Marble: The star of the space—used on the flooring and as a dramatic feature wall behind the barber stations. Its bold veining added movement and depth, while the white backdrop kept the space bright and airy.

• Dark Blue Joinery: Custom-designed cabinetry in a deep navy hue provided contrast, evoking the old-world charm of traditional barber shops while maintaining a sleek, modern edge.

• Leather & Brass Accents: Tufted leather waiting chairs, aged brass mirror frames, and vintage-style light fixtures reinforced the Victorian aesthetic, creating a sense of heritage without feeling dated.

2. Spatial Planning for Experience & Efficiency

With only four barber chairs, every square metre had to be optimised. We designed a U-shaped layout, ensuring:

• Unobstructed flow for both clients and barbers.

• Intimate yet open seating, so customers felt private but not cramped.

• Strategic lighting—wall-mounted sconces and pendant lights illuminated each station perfectly, crucial for precision haircuts.

Navigating the CDC Approval: Overcoming Challenges in Newtown

As with any commercial fit-out in Sydney, securing a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) was essential. Given Newtown’s mix of heritage and modern developments, we faced a few hurdles:

1. Acoustic Compliance

Located in a mixed-use building, we needed to ensure that the buzz of clippers and hairdryers wouldn’t disturb neighbouring tenants. Our solution?

• Sound-absorbing wall panels concealed within the navy blue joinery.

• Acoustic underlay beneath the marble flooring to dampen noise.

2. Accessibility Requirements

A slight level change at the entrance required a discrete ramp—seamlessly integrated into the marble flooring to maintain the sleek aesthetic.

3. Heritage & Streetscape Considerations

While not a heritage-listed site, Newtown’s eclectic character influenced our material choices. The council appreciated our use of classic elements like cornices and brass, which complemented the suburb’s vibe.

After close collaboration with a private certifier, we secured approval efficiently—avoiding costly delays.

From Concept to Reality: Partnering with the Right Builder

Finding a builder who understood high-end retail fit-outs was crucial. We selected a specialist commercial interiors team with experience in luxury hospitality and boutique spaces. Their craftsmanship shone in:

• Precision marble installation—minimising wastage and ensuring seamless veining alignment.

• Custom joinery—handcrafted cabinetry with flawless finishes.

• Restoration of vintage elements—sourcing and refurbishing original Victorian-style light fixtures.

Construction & Final Touches: Bringing the Vision to Life

The construction phase was a fast-paced, 10-week process, with our team overseeing every detail:

1. Demolition & Structural Prep – Removing existing partitions to open up the space.

2. Services & Lighting – Installing hidden wiring for a clean, minimalist look.

3. Material Installation – Laying the marble flooring, fitting the feature wall, and installing custom joinery.

4. Finishing Touches – Adding leather furnishings, brass fixtures, and vintage decor.

The result? A polished, high-end barber shop that exceeded the client’s expectations.

The Grand Opening & Client Feedback

Since its launch, Old School Barbers has become a Newtown hotspot, with clients praising its "timeless yet fresh" atmosphere. The owners report:

• Increased customer retention due to the luxurious experience.

• Social media buzz—many visitors photograph the marble feature wall and vintage details.

• Recognition in local design blogs as one of Sydney’s best-designed barber shops.

Why This Project Stands Out

This project exemplifies how thoughtful interior design can elevate a simple business into an unforgettable brand experience. By blending Victorian elegance with modern functionality, we created a space that feels both nostalgic and contemporary—a true reflection of Newtown’s unique character.

Looking to Transform Your Commercial Space?

At KENURO Architects, we specialise in bespoke retail, hospitality, and commercial interiors across Sydney. Whether you’re opening a barber shop, café, or boutique store, our team delivers innovative, compliant, and visually stunning designs.

Key Services:

✔ Commercial Interior Design
✔ CDC Approval Management
✔ Custom Joinery & Fit-Outs
✔ Heritage-Sensitive Design

Contact us today to discuss how we can bring your vision to life.