THE NEWEST SALON ON THE BLOC… BRINGING STYLE AND SUSTAINABILITY TOGETHER CARING FOR OUR CLIENTS, AND CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
We make a firm commitment that you will leave the salon inspired. Every step you take throughout your salon experience, is our responsibility, no matter how small. Bloc. is a collective of passionate specialists who through their craft, love to create an impact; to inspire, and challenge the status quo and to squash the predictable.
Creating a space of confidence. Hair is what we do. A cut should be noticed, a colour should pop and eyes should turn. Sharp clean lines, soft texture, voluminous and shiny hair that sits effortlessly. We are carving out our future through the people that shape our brand, from the stylist that pulls out your chair, to you recommending your family and friends. We adapt to your needs and the ever-changing environment of our industry. Consistently growing and sharing our knowledge with you.
We believe in doing our part to make a positive impact for our environment and the community we serve and who trust us. Through sustainable beauty we partner with likeminded brands and individuals to inspire each of us to do more, to do better. Using ecologically friendly haircare, hair-colouring and equipment. Giving a future for our team, brand and community and producing a healthier and more renewable lifestyle that we can all be proud of.
Our salon is designed to help you relax, unwind and decompress, leaving you looking and feeling your best. Whether it’s letting go with an indulgent head massage or enjoying a much needed catch up with your stylist. The only thing you need to do is turn up and we will take care of the rest. We are situated in the heart of Reading town centre on Gun Street, in a three-story town house, which sits adjacent of a picturesque church yard. With a full range of hair and beauty services, including balayage, straightening and smoothing services.
ALAN SHORT
Salon Director
In the beginning it wasn’t about hair as such; I saw it as a steppingstone into fashion, a way of joining an art team to make the right connections.
I quickly realised that not only did I love hair and had a talent, but I also discovered a strong family culture. I found creative, inspirational hairdressers and felt an amazing pride to be a part of such a brand. I knew I was surrounded by great talent, by creators from so many backgrounds each with their own skill set, strengths, and weaknesses.
I was in awe of their talent and hungrily soaked up all I could from technique to solid core foundations, which helped to shape me into the stylist I am today.
There was a feeling of a ‘people first’ culture, from management to the sharing of ideas through creative workshops. It was never forced upon anyone, people wanted to be involved. Nothing is perfect, but they did a great job with being open to ideas from everyone, and showed that all were equally important, regardless of experience. Working within an inclusive environment allows vulnerability which in turn grows trust, and that is when a team can truly grow. This installed in me a set of values that I now bring forward into this new venture.
It is from here that Bloc. hair was born, bringing together a collective of individual creators working to a common goal, to be the best they can be. Creative direction is great, it can inspire and guide, but not smother or stint personal growth, which can happen organically. And that is where true creative innovation develops and should be exploited for the benefit of not only the individual but for the entire team. Working as one to benefit the whole.
I have always loved the instant gratification I get while producing a beautiful cut that sits effortlessly with colour that enhances every line and texture. Hair is just another material that can be crafted into a work of art. It is my chance to express my imagination and skill, into ‘living art’.
There are many forms of stylist that produce fantastic work in their own way. If you were to break it down to a very basic description, you could say there are three types of stylist; technical, visual and a mixture of both. The latter always grabbed my attention through consistently pulling inspiration from pure technical and sheer visual stylists. Attention to detail gives hair that strong foundation and a style that holds it’s shape. It’s then adding the visual element to make it unique is where the magic lies.
IT’S NEVER JUST A HAIRCUT
Simone Chrichlow
Art director
I am thrilled to share my story with you! With over 30 years of experience in the industry, I have discovered my true calling as a hair stylist. While my journey started in art, I found immense joy and fulfilment in transforming hair and making my clients feel confident and beautiful.
Specialising in Afro and textured hair has become my passion. I believe that hair is a versatile and beautiful medium, regardless of its form. I have a deep understanding of the unique characteristics of kinky, coily, and curly hair, which requires both strength and delicacy in its treatment.
Joining Alan and the team at Bloc Hair is an exciting opportunity for me to expand my skills alongside like-minded professionals. I am grateful for this chance to continue making my clients look and feel their best. The salon will provide me with the perfect platform to share my expertise and passion with a wider audience.
Beyond styling, I have dedicated myself to continuous learning and staying updated with the latest trends and techniques. Attending workshops, seminars, and hair shows allows me to provide the best service possible to my clients. I pride myself on listening to their desires and concerns, creating hairstyles that enhance their natural beauty and individual preferences.
My love for Afro and textured hair extends beyond the salon. I actively engage with the community, sharing tips, advice, and inspiration through social media and local events. Empowering individuals with textured hair is my goal, helping them embrace their unique beauty and feel confident in their own skin.
In the salon, I strive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for my clients. Building strong relationships with them is important to me, ensuring they feel comfortable and valued during their time with me. I believe that the connection between a stylist and a client is crucial in creating the best possible experience.
Creativity is at the heart of my work. I enjoy experimenting with different styles, colours, and textures, pushing boundaries to create unique and statement-making looks. Seeing my clients' faces light up when they see their transformed hair is what drives me to constantly strive for excellence.
I am passionate about what I do, and I am dedicated to making a difference in the lives of my clients. I am excited to continue inspiring and empowering individuals with textured hair, helping them embrace their natural beauty and feel confident in their own skin. Let's create something beautiful together!
Karlton Lee
Creative stylist
Karlton's journey in the world of hairdressing began at a young age, fuelled by his father's involvement in the industry. Growing up, he was exposed to the dynamic and creative environment of a salon, which left a lasting impression on him. Recognising the importance of warmth and creativity in the salon experience, Karlton has carried these values with him throughout his career.
With a strong belief in providing every client with a first-class experience, Karlton goes above and beyond to ensure their satisfaction. Whether it's a simple haircut or a complex hair colour technique, such as a sombre balayage with a smudged root, he approaches each appointment with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to delivering outstanding results. This dedication has allowed him to cultivate a loyal and dedicated client base, who appreciate his skill and unwavering commitment to their salon experience.
Now, Karlton has embarked on an exciting new chapter, joining Alan and his team at Bloc. hair. He is thrilled about this opportunity, as it not only allows him to showcase his skills but also provides a platform for him to be mentored by one of the area's leading stylists. Karlton recognises the value of continuous learning and growth in his profession, and he is eager to take advantage of the collaborative and supportive environment at Bloc. hair to further enhance his expertise.
With his wealth of experience, passion for the industry, and commitment to delivering exceptional salon experiences, Karlton is poised to make a significant impact at Bloc. hair. He looks forward to contributing his unique skills and talents to the team, while also embracing the opportunity to learn and grow alongside some of the best professionals in the field.
VIKKI WOODROW
CREATIVE STYLIST
Vikki brings a fresh wave of experience, talent, and creativity to our team. With a career that began as an apprentice and flourished into a leadership role, she offers a wealth of knowledge and passion to every appointment. Her journey through the hairdressing world has been shaped by years on the salon floor and behind the scenes in education, where she dedicated herself to mentoring new talent and helping them grow into confident, skilled stylists.
Vikki was drawn to hairdressing from a young age, inspired by the creative energy of her family, many of whom also worked in the industry. Surrounded by the buzz of salons and the joy that comes from helping people feel their best, it wasn’t long before she followed in their footsteps. That early spark quickly turned into a lifelong passion and a standout career. Her love for the craft and eye for detail caught the attention of the wider industry, leading to her work being featured in Vogue Italia and a host of high-profile editorial shoots. She's also earned a place in the prestigious L'Oréal ID Artist program – a recognition reserved for the most creative, forward-thinking stylists in the business.
A true expert in all things hair – from precision cutting to advanced colouring – Vikki holds specialist training from L'Oréal and TIGI. Her love for hairdressing is matched only by her commitment to helping people feel their absolute best. Whether it’s a bold new colour or a subtle restyle, she listens, advises, and brings each client’s vision to life with care and expertise.
Away from the salon, Vikki is a proud mum and a lover of all things creative. She’s just as happy exploring the countryside with her family as she is getting stuck into a good home project or trying out a new recipe. Her warm, down-to-earth nature makes clients feel right at home – and her attention to detail keeps them coming back, time after time.
With Vikki, you're not just getting a stylist – you're getting someone who genuinely loves what she does and puts her heart into every look she creates.
So ying Yu
Senior Stylist
Creativity has always been at the heart of my journey. Starting my artistic pursuits at a young age, I eventually found my true passion in the world of hair styling. It's a medium that allows me to blend my artistic vision with the satisfaction of making clients look and feel their absolute best.
Over the years, I've honed my craft and developed a deep appreciation for the artistry of hair. I believe that every strand of hair has its unique story to tell and can be transformed into a work of art. I relish the opportunity to work with all hair types, as I see the beauty in the diversity of hair in all its forms. I know that colour can have a profound impact on one's identity and confidence. Witnessing the transformation and radiance that comes from the perfect hair colour is a source of immense joy for me. It's the reason I've dedicated myself to this craft with unwavering passion.
With each client, I strive to create a personalised experience that not only enhances their appearance but also boosts their confidence. It's the joy of witnessing that transformation and the smiles on my clients' faces that continue to fuel my passion for this profession.
As one of the Art Directors and part of the creative team at Bloc. hair, I look forward to collaborating with like-minded professionals in the industry. I believe this opportunity will provide the space to further expand my skills and continue pursuing my love for hairstyling.
Natalia miazga
front of house
As front of house at Bloc Hair, I am here to make every visit seamless, welcoming, and enjoyable from the moment you step through our doors. With a natural knack for organization and a love for connecting with people, I ensure each client feels right at home in our salon.
From booking your appointments to managing your needs during your visit, I keep everything running smoothly so our talented stylists can focus on what they do best: crafting the perfect look for you. Passionate about the latest in hair trends and products I am always happy to answer questions or recommend just the right stylist for your unique style and needs.
With a passion for photography, I love capturing the artistry of Bloc Hair's talented stylists. From fresh cuts to bold color transformations, I make sure each look is beautifully documented, showcasing the skill and creativity of the team. This dedication to photography adds an extra layer to the client experience, allowing each unique style to be remembered and celebrated. For me, it’s all about highlighting the details and bringing the stylists’ work to life, one shot at a time.
Thrilled to be part of such an inspiring team, I am passionate about learning from the best and contributing to the unique, welcoming atmosphere that makes Bloc Hair special.
Whether it’s your first visit or your regular appointment, I can’t wait to welcome you to Bloc Hair and make your experience unforgettable
“We make a firm commitment that you will leave the salon inspired. Every step you take throughout your salon experience, is our responsibility, no matter how small.”
“BY CREATING BEAUTY SUSTAINABLY, WE ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO TAKE CARE OF THEMSELVES, OF THE ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH THEY LIVE & WORK, AND OF THE THINGS THEY LOVE.”
Being the best for the world, creators of good life for all through beauty , ethics and sustainability .
Nanokeratin system
NanoSmooth pure is a revolutionary series of hair treatments that offer a safe and effective solution for bond reformation, soft smoothing, and complete straightening services. This advanced formula is suitable for all hair types, including natural, coloured, blonde, and challenging hair like Afro Caribbean.
The treatment works by restructuring the hair bonds, transforming them into a straight formation for soft and straight hair fibres. It creates a solid inner layer that seals in nourishment and promotes self-healing, while also forming an outer layer that acts as a protective barrier against damaging environmental factors.
Using NanoSmooth pure reduces friction between hair strands, allowing for greater freedom of movement. It also enhances the shine of coloured hair, prolongs colour retention, and prevents fading. The result is smooth, straight, and healthy hair that is easy to style and manage. Additionally, the treatment leaves the hair looking luminous, with intensified natural shine and vibrant colour.
Safety
Safe Bond Reformation Hair Straightening
0% Formaldehyde
0% Aldehyde
0% Chemical Off-gases
Ensuring safe toxic chemical free work environment
Claims
Safe Bond Reformation Complete Smoothing (Straightening)
Safe Bond Reformation Soft Smoothing
Reforming hairfiber texture to straight
Enlarging inner diameter from the inside
Reforming inner elliptical structure to round
Enhancing inner nutrient fluency and absorption
Call salon to book a free consultation
Skin test required a minimum of 48 hours before service
Find us
LOCATION:
2 Gun Street
Reading
Berkshire
RG1 2JR
T: 01189 588 030
E: info@bloc-hair.com
WhatsApp text only: 07780464685
Instagram: @bloc.hair
PARKING:
Situated in the town centre, just two minutes walk from The Oracle Holy Brook and Riverside car parks.
OPENING HOURS:
Monday 10:00 – 17:30
Tuesday 10:00 – 18:00
Wednesday 10:00 – 19:00
Thursday 09:00 – 21:00
Friday 09:00 – 20:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 17:30
Sunday: Closed
CANCELATION and NO SHOW APPOINTMENTS POLICY
We kindly request that you provide a minimum of 48 hours' notice for any cancellations or changes to your appointment. This allows us to accommodate other clients who may be on our waiting list. Failure to provide the required notice may result in a non-refundable deposit being taken for future appointments. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in adhering to our cancellation policy.
patch test policy
At our salon, we prioritise your safety above all else. That's why we have a strict policy of conducting a 48-hour patch test before any colour or Nano Keratin services. This test is essential as it helps us identify any potential reactions that may occur due to various factors, such as a change in the brand of colour products used.
Different salons often stock different brands of colour products, each with its own unique set of ingredients. Therefore, it is crucial for us to ensure that the products we use during your appointment are compatible with your skin and hair. This may require some waiting time before your colour appointment, and we sincerely appreciate your patience in this matter.
We take immense pride in our craft and our commitment to keeping you safe throughout the entire process. By conducting the patch test, we can confidently provide you with the best possible service without compromising your well-being. Thank you for understanding and for choosing our salon for your hair needs.