Kew Organics Facial Bar
501 Bukit Timah Road, Cluny Court, #03-03
First timers to the recently opened Kew Organics Facial Bar at Cluny Court may wonder if they have accidentally stumbled into founder Lily Kew's apartment. The exterior of the flagship spa on the third floor of Cluny Court, and accessible only by lift, resembles a home more than a beauty salon.
A cosy sitting area has been set up on the balcony, with a garland of flowers draped over the balustrade for that added homey effect.The salon's signage is the only giveaway.
Ms Kew, who started the brand in 2014, was attracted to Cluny Court's colonial architecture and its location beside Singapore Botanic Gardens, which she felt was ideal to provide her clients with a getaway from the bustle of the city while still being close to town.
The 1,500 sq ft space is home to two of Ms Kew's brands - Kew Organics, which offers a range of face and body treatments, and Sugar K Organic Peel Bar for express facials.
The bedrooms in the apartment have been converted into treatment rooms for Kew Organic's clients, while Sugar K's express facials are done on reclining chairs in a separate area.
But, while the treatments are designed for time-strapped individuals, the experience isn't rushed. Instead, the cosy waiting area, fondly nicknamed the living room, and the balcony welcome clients to relax and linger.
"I also selected a soothing colour palette of grey and beige and furniture with a minimalist feel to it to create that cosy ambience," says Ms Kew.
Ms Kew installed metal grilles in the living room, and they work well to demarcate the public area from Sugar K. (amendment note)
"The living room was conceptualised to embody the feel of a relaxing getaway from the city. While waiting for their appointments, clients can chat with our therapists on their skin needs over a cup of hot red date tea," says Ms Kew. "We dressed up the balcony as an area for clients to relax, recharge and have a sip of tea.
I want them to leave each facial feeling relaxed and recharged, and creating the right ambience adds to it."
 
Amendment note: Ms Kew installed the grilles and did not inherit them from the previous tenant as reported earlier.