Always on the hunt for stylish locations, we’re loving the way Joe Mills has used his new space at Woolf Kings X. A session stylist, Joe launched his JM Agency earlier this year. A veteran of salons (the Lounge in Soho in the late 90s, Joe and Co in 2010), Joe is not one to stand still, he embraces change.
For Woolf Kings X, he ran with his years of experience to deliver what he describes as a gender-neutral creative hub for hairdressers, barbers and stylists. More than a hairdressing enterprise, he’s included a talent agency, salon and photographic studio. That’s a lot for one premises to deliver. But it does.
Disrupting tradition
Joe’s eye for trends in consumerist behaviour and an evolving market helped spot an opportunity for a space like Woolf Kings X. Opened in late 2022, it is sited on Chalton Street behind the British Library, near London’s famous train station, and a stones throw from Coal Drops Yard, Granary Square and . The location has been important to him for its history.
Joe says: “Spending time around the area, and especially Coal Drops Yard, I realised how much of my own history was around here. For a long while I was a hairdresser by day and DJ or promoter by night. Coming back and spending time here reminded me of that time around The Cross and Bagleys – an important creative element in my life and the local area and part of the energy.”
Design
The look of Woolf Kings X is striking for being inviting yet superbly-stylish. The high-shine, understated patterning and unfussy decor make the industry of hairdressing a focus. This is a marriage of individualism and Bloomsbury heritage indeed. The whole speaks of cool professionalism yet warmth of emotion. the Cadilla BW Chair, Majolica Porto wash basin and Dainty grooming chair, all fro Takara Belmont, fit perfectly . They are designed for comfort. (See more about the Takara Belmont brand HERE)
Agent Joe Mills
Prior to opening, Joe had already launched his JM agency, born from a desire to move things on. Joe felt that traditional agencies for hair, make up, grooming, photography and fashion stylists were lessening in relevance. It was time to disrupt the traditional business model and create something with a completely fresh approach. The agency was quietly being nurtured while the premises at Woolf Kings X were finalised.
“The background behind the agency idea was to help support, mentor and nurture existing and up-and-coming talent in this industry. By managing the rights and development of these artists, we wanted to make a fairer platform for the artist and their growth.” Joe Mills.
To join, check out www.joemillsagency.net
____________________________
Here online you may browse our Portfolio section to find inspiration from the greatest hair artists… read our Blog to discover the top events and what we like about them, then visit our Magazine section to read the latest edition (and archive editions) of Tribu-te publications. If you’d like to enjoy your very own edition of Tribu-te delivered direct to your home – vist the Shop to order a subscription to arrive quarterly. And of course, once a year, you can visit the Tribu-te Show – it’s an awesome presentation of the leading hairdressers on the best stage possible in central London each October! Contact us if you have any questions or would like to submit photography and ideas for any of our editions in Europe – we’re particulary keen to see your salons for our Design section both in print and online.