What is a salon studio?

At Sola, a salon suite is your very own private, move-in ready space inside one of our beautifully designed locations. Each suite is fully equipped with high-end furnishings and can be customized to reflect your style, giving you the freedom to create the business of your dreams. We take care of all the shared areas like entryways, bathrooms, and breakrooms so you can focus on your clients. Unlike renting a chair in a traditional salon, a salon suite gives independent beauty professionals such as hair stylists, estheticians, nail technicians, barbers, and more the ability to set their own schedule, prices, and vibe. With Sola, you get all the perks of salon ownership without the build-out costs, overhead, or hassle. It’s your services. Your schedule. Your vibe. Your salon.

Why choose Sola Salons?

Sola Salons is the leading choice for independent beauty professionals who want the freedom of salon ownership without the overhead. When you lease a private salon suite at Sola, you get a move-in ready space plus the tools, benefits, and support to run your business your way. We provide: A start-up manual with checklists, forms, and licensing guidance Insurance resources, credit card processing tips, and retail/distributor contacts Access to health insurance and other work benefits through our partner programs Liability and disability insurance options (in select areas) Discounts on retail, online scheduling, and business tools Ongoing education, industry events, and marketing support Beyond business resources, you’ll join the largest community of independent salon owners in the country complete with local events, networking, and a supportive culture designed to help you thrive.

Who are the studios designed for?

Our studios can be modified to accommodate hairdressers, skincare professionals, nail technicians, massage therapists, med spa professionals and more. We design our studios with flexibility and offer a range of sizes and prices to fit your business needs. They can also be customized by you.

What types of beauty professionals can rent a studio?

Sola salon suites are designed for a wide variety of independent beauty and wellness professionals. Our flexible spaces can be customized to fit your services and business needs. Professionals who thrive at Sola include: Hair stylists and barbers Estheticians and skincare specialists Nail technicians and lash artists Massage therapists and bodywork professionals Med spa professionals, injectors, and wellness providers With a range of suite sizes and price points, you can create a private, personalized space that reflects your brand. Each suite is move-in ready, fully equipped, and designed to give you the freedom to run your business your way.

Can more than one salon professional work in a single studio?

Yes, we offer floor plans designed to accommodate multiple salon professionals, and we are committed to working closely with you to find the optimal setup for your business. Since each location is independently owned and operated, we recommend reaching out to your local Sola for more information and to schedule a tour. They will be able to provide you with personalized assistance based on your specific needs and preferences.

Why lease a salon studio?

Leasing a salon suite at Sola gives beauty professionals the freedom of salon ownership without the high costs or risks of opening a traditional salon. Each private suite is move-in ready, fully equipped, and designed to be customized to your brand. With Sola, you can: Set your own schedule, prices, and services Create a personalized environment for you and your clients Enjoy freedom from salon politics and shared space drama Access work benefits like health insurance options, liability coverage, and business discounts Included amenities: Custom cabinetry and abundant storage Hydraulic chair and shampoo bowl Full-spectrum lighting and individual ventilation Oversized sliding glass door with lock and floor-to-ceiling privacy Utilities and Wi-Fi included Sola makes it simple to invest in yourself and run your own salon business—with the perks of ownership and the support of the largest community of independent salon owners in the country.

Where can I find all the different locations you have?

You can find all Sola Salons locations by using our Find a Location search tool. With over 700 locations across the U.S. and Canada (and growing), there’s likely a Sola near you. Simply enter your city, state, or ZIP code to explore available salon suites for rent in your area. Each listing provides details about the space, amenities, and how to schedule a tour with a local leasing manager. Whether you’re searching for salon suites near me or exploring new markets, Sola makes it easy to find the right location to start or grow your business.

How is leasing a salon studio different from working at a traditional salon?

At Sola, you’re not just renting a chair—you’re running your own salon. As the owner of your private studio, you decide your service menu, set your prices, and keep 100% of your profits. You’ll have a key to your suite, giving you complete control over your schedule, products, and client experience. With Sola, you get all the freedom of salon ownership at a cost similar to chair or booth rental—plus the privacy, professionalism, and independence that come with having your very own space.

How much does it cost to rent a studio?

Studio pricing varies by location. The best way to get details is to connect with your local Sola. Simply fill out an inquiry form or contact a leasing manager to learn about current pricing and schedule a tour.

How long is the rental agreement?

Each Sola location may offer different lease options. Contact your location’s leasing manager to learn what agreements are available and find the one that works best for you.

Can I decorate and customize my studio?

Absolutely! Your studio is your space, so make it your own. Paint the walls, add your décor, play your music, and create the atmosphere that feels right for you and your clients.

What is included in my studio rental?

When you rent a Sola studio, you get a fully private, move-in ready space that’s all your own. Your rental includes: Your personal salon suite with a key for exclusive access Maintenance of all common areas, including entryways, bathrooms, and breakrooms Utilities such as water, electricity, and Wi-Fi (varies by location) A clean, professional environment for you and your clients This allows you to focus on your business while enjoying the perks of a fully equipped, turnkey salon space.

Do you provide marketing or business support?

Yes! Every Sola professional receives: A customizable online profile page on the Sola website to help new clients find you. Access to marketing education, webinars, guides, and ongoing training. While you run your own business, Sola gives you the visibility, resources, and community support you need to grow and thrive.

How do I know if I'm right for Sola?

Sola is perfect for beauty professionals ready to take control of their careers. If you have an established clientele and want to: Be your own boss Escape salon drama Set your own hours and prices Sell the retail products you love Customize your own salon studio …then you’ll thrive here. Join our community of over 20,000 independent beauty professionals and enjoy creative freedom, career support, and the independence to run your business your way.

What are the next steps to getting started?

Getting started at Sola Salons is simple: Visit our Locations Page to find the salon suites nearest you. Fill out the quick inquiry form. A local leasing manager will reach out to schedule a confidential tour and help you choose the best suite for your business. Once you sign your lease and secure your salon license, you can move in—often right away. Your suite comes fully equipped. All you need to bring are your backbar, towels, personal tools, and décor to make the space your own. With Sola, you’ll experience the freedom of salon ownership without the overhead of opening a traditional salon.

What are the hours of operation?

At Sola, you have 24/7 access to your studio. While our main doors are open during regular business hours, you can welcome clients before or after hours—or on Sundays—by letting them in yourself. This flexibility lets you schedule appointments at the times that work best for you and your clients.

What are the key advantages to renting a studio?

Renting a Sola studio gives you the freedom and support to run your business your way: Set your own schedule with 24/7 access to your studio Set your own prices and keep all profits, including retail sales Personalize your space with décor, music, and privacy Work in a drama-free environment Access exclusive education and resources for independent salon owners Join a community of over 20,000 independent beauty professionals Receive support from your leasing manager, franchisee, and local Sola community With Sola, you have the independence of ownership plus a network of support every step of the way.

How to Transition From a Traditional Salon to Your Own Salon Suite

Article summary:

Know When You're Ready to Make the Transition
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Transitioning
Take the Next Step Toward Salon Suite Ownership

The beauty industry has evolved significantly over the last decade. More hairstylists, barbers, estheticians, nail technicians, lash artists, and makeup professionals are moving away from traditional commission-based salons and embracing independent business ownership through a salon suite.

For many beauty professionals, a salon suite provides the opportunity to take greater control over income, scheduling, branding, and the overall client experience. Rather than working under someone else’s business structure, professionals can create an environment that reflects their personal style, services, and long-term goals.

Opening a salon suite can be an exciting career move but requires thoughtful planning, financial preparation, and a clear understanding of independent operation. Whether researching how to open a salon suite or considering your next step, understanding the transition process helps you move forward with confidence.

Know When You're Ready to Make the Transition

Signs You've Outgrown the Traditional Salon Model

Many beauty professionals consider a salon suite when their growth plateaus in a traditional salon. You may feel limited by commission structures, restricted scheduling, or the inability to fully develop your brand.

One of the strongest indicators that you're ready for a salon suite is having a loyal client base that consistently requests your services. When clients seek you out specifically rather than the salon itself, it may signal that you are ready to operate more independently.

Another common motivator is flexibility. Many professionals want more control over work hours, pricing, services, and time off. A salon suite lets you build a business that supports your professional goals and personal lifestyle.

Why Salon Suites Appeal to Independent Beauty Professionals

A salon suite offers many of the benefits of business ownership without the substantial costs and responsibilities associated with opening a full-service salon.

Independent professionals can enjoy a private workspace, create a customized client experience, and operate under their own brand while avoiding the challenges of managing a larger staff and facility.

Clients often appreciate the personalized atmosphere of a salon suite. The private setting allows for more focused service, stronger relationships, and an elevated customer experience that can increase retention and referrals.

For professionals who want to build their own brand and maximize earning potential, a salon suite offers opportunities that may not exist in a traditional salon setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Transitioning

Many professionals leave a traditional salon before building a strong client base. Without predictable revenue, the transition becomes financially challenging.

Others underestimate startup costs or fail to create a realistic financial plan. Understanding expenses before opening helps avoid stress and setbacks.

Another common mistake is neglecting marketing and branding. Opening a salon suite does not guarantee client growth. Ongoing promotion, strong customer service, and consistent visibility are necessary for long-term success.

Many professionals fail to create a long-term business plan. Setting goals for revenue, client acquisition, service expansion, and professional development helps create a stable and rewarding career path.

Take the Next Step Toward Salon Suite Ownership

Transitioning from a traditional salon to your own salon suite can be one of the most rewarding decisions in a beauty professional's career. The chance to control your schedule, increase earning potential, build a personal brand, and create a customized client experience attracts independent professionals across the beauty industry.

Success starts with preparation. Building a loyal clientele, understanding the financial side of ownership, developing a marketing strategy, and planning for long-term growth make the transition smoother and more sustainable.

For beauty professionals exploring how to open a salon suite, Sola Salons provides resources, support, and professionally designed salon suite spaces that help independent beauty entrepreneurs grow their businesses with confidence.