Founded by stylist Kemi Akinbola, Kemi's Place is the latest hair salon to set up at Hackney Downs Studios. With roots firmly planted in Hackney, Kemi is redefining what it means to be a modern creative as she opens up her first space as a solo practitioner.

We caught up with Kemi on her growing creative journey within the local community and her new space at Hackney Downs Studios.

Your journey as a hairdresser in Hackney is deeply rooted in the community where you grew up. How has Hackney influenced your creative vision and approach to hairdressing, and what does it mean to you to now own and operate Kemi’s Place in Hackney Downs Studios?

Well actually I’m an all round creative, I got my hairdressing certificate at City and Islington College and then went onto train with Aveda at their flagship salon in Holborn. Thanks to word of mouth, I was able to spread my wings and build up my clientele. In fact, I was doing quite a few clients in my studio flat in Hackney Central as a side hustle.

Prior to this, and even now, I have been a music artist and hugely involved in music, having put on events regularly in East London in the early 2000s whilst growing up in various parts of hackney. My family started off in Pembury Estate in the 80s, when Hackney Downs Park still put on their summer fairs. Given that Hackney is my home, and the majority of my immediate family all live minutes away from the studio (including me), picking this location was a no brainer.

You’ve built an impressive portfolio, collaborating with high-profile clients and brands like TEMS x Tommy Jeans, Sony Music and working with Dazed Digital. What are some of the key lessons or insights you’ve gained from working on such projects, and how do these experiences shape your work with individual clients?

I’ve realised that we are all human beings and it boils down to being a good human being and doing good hair. If you are famous or an office executive or a stay-at-home mum, your hair deserves to be treated with care. 

Kemi’s Place is your first space as a solo practitioner. What inspired you to take the leap into establishing your own studio, and how does the space reflect you as a hairdresser and a business owner?

I realised that I have many more skills from my years of training, working with artists, working in theatre, working in salons, and working from home, as well as education. The need to care for people's hair from scratch is something that I've always been passionate about. I decided to take the plunge and open up a studio, in a way that I can put my own stamp on things, create my own vibe, and be myself, and make others feel good. It was a bit daunting juggling this alongside my independent music career, as well as working part time as a wig maker. But carpe diem.

The hairdressing industry is constantly evolving with trends, techniques, and the increasing demand for representation and authenticity. How do you position yourself and your brand to stay at the forefront of these changes?

I’ll be honest I’m a bit old school. I’m a fan of the fundamentals when it comes to haircare, as I feel like some trends are not always the best when it comes to hair health. However, I’m also very musical, into fashion, the arts and new styles, so a lot of my influences come from music, the streets, art, my culture and my community. I like to keep it real and if I feel like changes don't blend with my morals, I’m probably going to swerve them. I’m keen on innovative brands, but I do have my staples, and I guess if it isn’t broken, then I’m not going to fix it. Hair doesn’t change — it's just the trends that do and it boils down to your skills.

As a creative professional who wears many hats (hairdresser, entrepreneur, and collaborator), what advice would you give to aspiring practitioners looking to carve out a path in the industry?

I’m quite spontaneous and I tend to just follow my gut, and sniff my way to where I want to go. So I guess the best advice I’d give someone is to follow your gut and be the best version of you. You only get one chance to take advantage of what’s on your doorstep and shape your own future. Oh, and make sure you have the skills to back yourself up!