Salon Haarwensen Prinses Máxima Centrum

Connection

Many children hate seeing their last remaining hair shaved off and would prefer not to watch. Thus, the salon needed to be a safe, pleasant space. We also needed to make room for mum, dad, brothers and sisters, because it can help to have them nearby. But there wasn’t a lot of space available. The salon consisted of three small rooms, which seemed to limit the possibilities. So, we decided to do something drastic: we created a large wooden element to connect the rooms. This element also functions as a cupboard, storage space and stowed seating.

Peace and privacy

The salon has three zones. The hair salon itself, with a dressing table and a mirror, which can be easily moved to make room for a television to provide distraction. If desired, the salon can offer complete privacy thanks to a sliding door, which is also integrated into the furniture. Then, there is a lounge area where children can relax alone or with their family while their hairpiece is adjusted. Finally, to complete the whole, we included a corner with an inviting round table where the patient and family can sit down for a chat. On the walls, which are painted in soft, subdued colours, are proud photos of patients with their new hairpieces, drawings and thank-you notes. There is even a large whiteboard where people can leave a message or a drawing.

The Salon Haarwensen has, with a limited budget, become a high-quality, relaxing place that is sensitive to its young clients’ needs. A warm and welcoming environment, where children and teenagers battling cancer have space to be themselves.