9 Inspiring Tanning Salon Décor Ideas

There’s more to running a successful tanning salon than installing some sunbeds and running a clever marketing campaign. It’s also about providing outstanding customer service.

To create a great first impression, your salon should be sparkling clean, beautifully decorated and exude professionalism. Good software, such as ActiveSalon, can go a long way to helping you run a smooth operation. But what about the all-important tanning salon décor?

Whether you’re opening a new sunbed shop or giving your existing premises a makeover, we’ve got you covered. Here are 9 inspiring tanning salon decorating ideas to spark your creativity.

1. Decide on a Décor Theme

Your salon’s decor should reflect the overall atmosphere you’re trying to create for your new clients. Choosing a theme to work with across your salon will help guide your decorating decisions.

For example, a luxury theme lends itself to marble countertops, crushed velvet sofas and rose gold salon décor. For a fun, modern vibe, try a black and white theme with pops of bright, primary colours. For a tropical or holiday theme, think pastel shades, palm trees and rattan furniture.  

2. Create an Open, Airy Space

When it comes to tanning salon design, layout matters. Creating an open, airy space in your waiting area will help it feel welcoming – it’s hard to relax in a cramped or cluttered salon. Look for tanning salon layout plans for ideas on how to best use your available space.

As for small salon décor ideas, try to use as little furniture as possible. For example, invest in tanning salon software to eliminate the need for bulky filing cabinets. Light-coloured walls and floor-to-ceiling mirrors can also help create the illusion of more space.

3. Consider Colour Symbolism

When choosing potential tanning salon colour schemes, consider the symbolism of different shades. Choose a colour that represents your overall vibe and will appeal to your target market. For example:

• Yellows, oranges and reds will put your clients in mind of energy, warmth and sunshine
• Blue is associated with relaxation and trust – perfect for a calm, spa-like atmosphere
• Green symbolises growth and nature – ideal if you want to create a refreshing, zen space, or emphasise eco-friendliness
• White salon décor feels fresh, pure and clean – try adding silver and gold accents for a touch of opulence

You could even look to your tanning salon’s logo for inspiration. Just avoid using dark colours – they can make a space feel small and uninviting. To appeal to both male and female clients, stay gender-neutral and avoid too much pink salon décor.

4. Invest in Quality Lighting

Lighting is one of the most important elements of any tanning salon design, so consider it carefully. Cool-toned LED lights will mimic natural sunlight, helping to create a bright, fresh ambiance. However, soft, warm lighting is more flattering, so this may be a good choice for areas with mirrors.

Use chandeliers and large statement lampshades to draw the eye to the centre of the room. Alternatively, opt for tall floor lamps for a modern, minimalistic feel. You can also use accent lighting to highlight particular areas, such as product displays.

5. Add Plants for Natural Ambiance

Bring some life to your aesthetic salon decor with some carefully chosen plants. Not only will they add a pop of colour and create a fresh, natural ambiance, but they’ll also help purify the air!

You can hang plants from the ceiling or walls, or place them on tables and shelves. Choose hardy species – such as ferns, monsteras and parlour palms – and be mindful of their light and water requirements. Wilted and dead plants will not make a good impression on your customers!

6. Get Creative with Your Wall Décor

Your walls are a blank canvas, so get creative and have some fun with your tanning salon wall décor. For example, create an eye-catching feature wall using textured wallpaper or brightly coloured decals. Or, if you’re feeling brave, why not try painting a mural?

Framed prints or photographs can also work well – just make sure they’re in keeping with your salon’s theme. For example, black-and-white portraits and mirrors would suit a classic, chic space. Brightly coloured modern art would be perfect in a more contemporary salon.

7. Choose Comfortable Seating

Your waiting area will be the first part of your tanning salon that your clients experience. So, it’s important to create a relaxing, welcoming space by investing in comfortable seating.

Whether you choose sofas or chairs, make sure to space them out so that they’re not cramped together. Your furniture should tie in with your overall salon aesthetic – but be careful not to prioritise form over function. There’s no point in having beautiful furnishings if they’re uncomfortable to sit on!

8. Incorporate Scent and Sound

Salon décor ideas aren’t all about visuals: scent and sound are powerful sensory tools, perfect for creating a particular ambiance.

For example, use essential oil diffusers or scented candles to fill the air with a subtle fragrance. Opt for citrus scents for a fresh, vibrant atmosphere, or choose lavender for a relaxing effect.

Background music can also help to tie your theme together. Soft, instrumental music is ideal for a calm, spa-like feel – or for a tropical-themed tanning salon, try playing some chilled-out reggae or calypso.

9. Add Thoughtful Touches

Finish off your tanning salon interior design by adding some thoughtful touches to your decor. For example:

• Vases of fresh flowers
• Fluffy towels
• Wall hooks for customers to hang their coats
• Bookshelves – not only do these add to the décor, but they’ll give your customers something to read while they wait for their sunbed session
• Cushions and throws
• Refreshments – for example, bowls of fresh fruit or a herbal tea station

Though they’re simple gestures, these personal touches will help show your clients that you care about their experience.

Discover ActiveSalon: The UK’s Leading Tanning Salon Software

Besides choosing the right tanning salon décor, running a profitable business means providing a great customer experience. ActiveSalon, the UK’s leading tanning salon software, comes with a wealth of features to help you run your business smoothly and professionally.

With our cloud-based digital database, you can access clients’ details, view past and upcoming appointments and send out automated reminders with ease. Your customers can manage their bookings online through an easy-to-use web app. Track your sales, manage your inventory and view daily reports with the built-in POS.

For one low price, you’ll have access to every feature ActiveSalon has to offer – available on any device, anywhere, anytime. Start your 3-month free trial today!