Salon HER’s Michael Kelly on Creative Spaces
Photography by Chloe Paul
This week we meet Michael Kelly who, while not a Sydney native, is someone who feels right at home in Darlinghurst, and the space (and community) he has built within it. With creativity as his compass, Michael's talent has taken him the world over, both honing his craft - and sharing his knowledge - from London to Los Angeles, before returning to Australia to start his own project, Salon HER. Join us as we step inside this warm & welcoming space, where our collection of playful Jacquard towels look right at home amongst a rich and textural backdrop, designed in collaboration with Folk Studio.
Details of our 100% organic cotton towels in Oxblood & Peach
“Creativity has always been my compass. Growing up in a small surf town on Australia’s east coast, I could never have imagined that my path would lead me here—to create something as personal and intentional as Salon HER. I began my career at 16, stepping into the world of hair as a quiet, observant apprentice. But quickly, the craft took hold of me. It wasn’t just about hair—it was about artistry, energy, and the deeply personal connections we make with people through our work. Over the past two decades, I’ve been fortunate to travel the world, teaching and collaborating from London to Los Angeles. Every experience shaped my understanding of transformation—not just of hair, but of people.
“Eventually, I knew it was time to create a space that embodied everything I’d learned. A place where the idea of luxury wasn’t about excess, but about warmth, personalisation, and making every client feel like the best version of themselves. Salon HER is that space. It’s intimate yet bold, elegant yet welcoming—everything I’ve loved and everything I’ve worked toward, woven together into one cohesive vision.”
Our organic cotton bath towels at Salon HER, pictured in Khaki Stripe
“The design of Salon HER was all about creating a space where time feels like it slows down. We worked with Folk Studio to craft an intimate and welcoming environment that mixes textures and colours like rich walnut and tri-colour Italian terrazzo tiles. The inspiration came from chic, downtown LA hotel lobbies, where you can just sink in, relax, and lose track of time. We wanted every detail to enhance the experience—from the lighting to the custom furniture.
“Music is a big part of the vibe too, with low-fi beats in the mornings and smooth Bossa Nova tunes in the evenings - we curate a playlist with Sydney DJ Troy Beaman monthly to keep the atmosphere feeling fresh and relevant. Whether you're sipping a barista-style coffee or winding down with a Peach Bellini, it’s all about feeling at home while we work on creating your dream hair.”
The design of Salon HER was all about creating a space where time feels like it slows down.
“Darlinghurst has such an eclectic energy—it’s vibrant, diverse, and full of life. I love the mix of old-school charm and modern sophistication. It's a place where creativity thrives, and the sense of community is strong, which is exactly what I wanted for Salon HER. I’ve always been drawn to areas that have a bit of grit but also a lot of soul, and Darlinghurst embodies that balance. It’s the perfect setting for a salon that values inclusivity and creating transformative, yet accessible, experiences for all.”
Darlinghurst has such an eclectic energy—it’s vibrant, diverse, and full of life. I love the mix of old-school charm and modern sophistication.
"I live close by, in Darling Point and it’s ideal because I love being part of the same community that the salon serves. It’s a laid-back lifestyle—balancing work with the outdoor spaces nearby, Rushcutters Bay Park and views of the harbour and city. I’m a bit of a coastal creature at heart. You’ll often find me escaping to the beach when I need a recharge. Living close by also means I get to really experience the energy of Darlinghurst—popping into local spots and enjoying the food and culture. There’s something grounding about being part of the place where your business lives.”
"A typical day starts early for me. I visit the gym almost daily followed by spending a few quiet moments to set my intentions for the day. My mornings are everything to me, it’s essential to me I get my endorphins pumping early and put my self care first. Then, it’s straight into the salon where the energy builds as the team arrives. We’ll kick off with a morning briefing, and I love taking a hands-on role with clients—whether it’s a transformative colour appointment or a consultation for a big hair makeover."
“Every day at Salon HER is different, which keeps it exciting. Between appointments, I’m often catching up with the team, brainstorming new ideas, or planning for upcoming events. In the evenings, I like to wind down by walking through the neighbourhood or heading to one of my favourite local spots for dinner and ending my days with the loves of my life - my Sausage dogs Dylan and Freddie. It's about balancing the hustle of salon life with time to recharge and reflect.”
@salonher_
@michaelkellycolourist
