GoodBody | Homework

Homework​, the San Francisco-based architectural design firm, announced its completion of construction and design of a modern custom-built beauty salon in the heart of downtown Oakland. The 360 construction project—from demolition of a cluster of dated office spaces—was more than a year-long endeavor that culminated in the successful grand opening this week of ​GoodBody​, a salon specializing in textured hair.

“Spaces that awaken strong emotions are the most impactful. We wanted this space to empower femininity and elevate the ritual of selfcare,” ​said Susan and Ben Work​, the designer-architect duo and married partners behind Homework.

“After we stripped out the clutter of walls and dropped-ceilings from the previous tenant, the challenge was to transform a cavernous empty space with areas for reception, retail, hair washing, and beauty services. After rounds of iterations, we developed sinuous millwork curves to promote the service functions while defining the space,” said Ben Work.

”We are proud and ecstatic to showcase this unique space that we were able to execute during a pandemic and open in time to actualize the client’s vision: a beautiful destination in burgeoning downtown Oakland that offers specialized services for women’s hair in the spirit of celebrating diversity,” added Susan Work.

The space boasts double-height​ ​exposed ceilings after the Works removed the acoustic drop-foam ceilings, creating a jaw-dropping modern hall. Extensive custom millwork is 

among the first details you see when entering the salon, which features a crescent sitting bench that forms a natural lobby and continues on to serve as a retail nook.

The main salon space is enveloped in muted salmon-toned walls anchored by a row of svelte salon stations featuring leather swivel chairs in golden tobacco. The Works installed flattering LED light strip all around each station’s slender arched-shaped mirror echoing the arched threshold separating the service salon from the back wash room, which evokes a private, cozy den-- peacock green walls accented with amaretto leather structured reclining chairs, black porcelain hair washing sinks.

Inspired by the salon’s business ethos of modernity and celebration of textured hair, the Works went through great lengths to create an elevated and inviting destination for beauty and hair care needs in Oakland, which has been undergoing a revival with boutiques, cafes and award-winning restaurants.