Profile

After working as a stylist in his native Tokyo for nine years, Mino Obata moved to New York and opened this comfortable West Village salon in 2006. The small, four-station retreat forgoes frills, but the cream color palette and a smattering of plants make the space feel more homey than sterile. Obata works quickly but precisely, starting with a classic shape like a bob and razoring long layers or over-the-eye bangs to add texture and personality. The salon’s four other stylists tout training from Aveda, Eva Scrivo, and Ted Gibson salon, as well as various experience styling hair for editorial shoots and runway shows. Two specialize in color—stylist Danielle Golburgh worked on Oprah’s “Great American Makeover” show—and nearby NYU students seek out their face-framing highlights and process color looks. The stylists use Japanese hair products from NanoAmino and Real Puala sparingly, adding luster while maintaining a soft, natural feel. Though the salon’s service is professional and efficient, the vibe is easygoing—a newly styled customer might be told approvingly that her hair looks “sexy” on her way out. — Randi Eichenbaum