Nestled above the buzz of Dyson Place’s hub of independents, The Nook Retreat offers a soothing escape with its holistic take on beauty and wellbeing. Co-owned by Lauren Eaton and Hannah Emmerich, Exposed popped down to discover how this warm space is inviting people to slow down in an increasingly hectic world.
“I started The Nook hair salon in 2020 ,” Hannah tells Exposed, explaining the beginnings of what has now become a much-loved eco-friendly business. “I wanted to create somewhere that was a bit more one-to-one with my clients and had sustainability at its core. And then Lauren joined me a little later.”
Lauren came on board offering makeup, brow and lash services, but her interests later turned toward more holistic treatments. “It worked well having Lauren in the salon,” Hannah says, “but she wanted to explore additional services like facials and massage, and we just didn’t have the space or privacy required.”
“The salon’s lovely and lively,” adds Lauren, “but the retreat needed a calmer atmosphere.”
And so, The Nook Retreat was born – a softly-lit, serene upstairs space launched in November 2024. It now offers a range of treatments including holistic massage, Weleda facials, brow and lash styling, natural makeup, mani-pedi rituals and bridal makeup.
The space itself is designed with intention – think calming interiors, gentle lighting and wooden dividers that can shift to open up the room for events. “As soon as people walk in, you can see them visibly relax,” says Lauren. “It’s like a little oasis shut away from the noise. There’s a real sense of calm.”
That peaceful energy runs through everything the team does – but the retreat is about more than pampering and unwinding. It’s a place to connect. Since opening, The Nook has hosted yoga sessions, women’s circles and is set to welcome a sound healing bath in August. “It’s become a genuine wellbeing gathering space,” Lauren explains. “It’s like a little community hub.”
Mirroring the salon’s creed, sustainability and conscious practice sits at the heart of the retreat’s ethos. Both Lauren and Hannah are committed to minimising waste and sourcing consciously. “We recycle everything we use,” says Hannah. “We’re part of the Green Salon Collective, which helps manage waste specific to the hair and beauty industry.”
This commitment to sustainability runs through every detail, from choosing reusable bamboo applicators to partnering with ethical brands like Weleda and Sheffield Skincare Co. All products – from facial creams to massage oils – are made with ethically sourced ingredients, reinforcing a values-led approach that attracts clients drawn to natural treatments.
The team has grown alongside the space, with six practitioners now involved – each bringing their own expertise and energy. “We’re a collective,” says Lauren. “Everyone has their own style, which makes for a really bespoke experience. It’s the opposite of that conveyor-belt feel you get in some commercial spas.”
Massage – from holistic to pregnancy, Indian head and hot stone – has proved particularly popular, along with lash and brow treatments. But the benefits go beyond the physical. “People are rushed off their feet and resting less,” says Lauren. “And when they finally come in, they often say they could just fall asleep – even if I’m mid-brow wax!”
For many, it’s a reminder of just how much they needed the break. “There’s this weird shame around resting and taking time out for yourself in society these days,” she adds. “Like it’s lazy or self-indulgent. But spaces like this help challenge that. They give people the permission and space to slow down.”
Appointments are made in advance, with doorbell-only entry ensuring a peaceful, uninterrupted atmosphere. “We wanted it to feel like a true retreat – a little escape from everything outside,” Lauren explains.
Being part of the proudly independent community around Sharrow Vale Road and Dyson Place also adds to the appeal. “You can come in for a treatment, then go grab coffee or lunch nearby. There’s a real buzz here, especially in summer,” she says. “It feels almost continental with the bars, cafes and shops outside.”
Above all, Lauren and Hannah take pride in creating somewhere that’s warm, welcoming and personal. “It’s nice to make people happy, isn’t it?” Hannah reflects. “To facilitate this type of space – for the people that come and the people that work here.”
For anyone unsure if a retreat is for them, Lauren has simple advice: “You’ll get something out of just taking the time to pause. Even if you don’t think you need it – you might be surprised at how your body responds.”
@thenookretreat
thenookhair.co.uk/bookings
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