RUSH Academy Press Visit

Well today was an exciting one fro the AJC Team, where we finally introduced the trade press from the hairdressing industry to the incredible RUSH Academy which is located in the heart of london's Covent Garden!

To start the day off, the academy was prepped with tea, coffee and some gorgeous pastries from the incredible Paul's (located right across from the academy - so dangerous as their goods are so yummy!)

The press arrived at 10am sharp and were welcomed by the RUSH Artistic Team who gave a guided tour through the academy, explaining the inspiration behind it and discussing the gorgeous features and enhancements made throughout the build.

The fabric of the building provided the blueprint for the design with exposed brick wall,

crumbling plaster, uncovered ducting, stone flooring and metal gates and staircase all providing a raw utilitarian feel to the building. The basin area is situated in the underground arches along side the bespoke colour bar and retail units. The reception desk is made from steel and 100 year-old planks, and old laboratory desk and school chairs are situated in the breakout area, where all who visit will be intrigued by the graffiti art depicting Elvis, Jimi Hendrix and Sid Vicious by street artist Paul Insect on the exposed brick walls. Visitors to the RUSH Academy will be drawn into the larger than life urban artwork from Matt Small, who has painted two bold absorbing pieces directly onto old fridge doors.

Lighting is key to creating the correct ambiance in each area of the Academy and the spectacular chandelier by British designer Tom Dixon is contemporary and at the same time makes quite a statement. Tom Dixon lighting and soft furnishings have also been used throughout the Academy. Stell and his team have created a melting pot of stimulating design, one that will inspire all who visit. Andy and Stell’s dream has become a reality, one that epitomises RUSH and what they stand for - up to date cool street fashion, innovative hairdressing and the ability to create trends and share them with fellow hairdressers around the world.

Next up was a live demo from International Creative Director Andy Heasman and Colour Director, Chris Williams, who demonstrated looks from their latest collections.