Featured in the January/February Issue of Barber EVO Magazine:
“I WAS DRAWN TO KELLER FURNITURE BECAUSE OF THEIR FOCUS ON QUALITY AND TIMELESS DESIGN."
“THEIR PIECES RESONATE WITH THE LUXURY AND WARMTH I WANTED FOR MANE STUDIO, MAKING THEM A PERFECT FIT FOR OUR AESTHETIC.”
In Buffalo, NY, Shah the Barber is redefining what luxury in the barbershop is. Blending style, craftsmanship and sophistication – Shah’s barbershop is one that oozes suaveness. With a focus on client experience, Shah knows that the barber chair is the heart of his studio – which is why he went with Keller International.
When Shah the Barber crafted his stunning barbershop, Mane Studio, he built the space with the idea that it was more than just a barbershop – perceiving it more so as an immersive experience. Mane Studio is an oasis where clients can unwind and indulge in top-tier grooming within a meticulously designed space.
Immersive Experience
Mane Studio boasts an aesthetic that feels like a blend between a modern cigar lounge and a well-curated man cave. Rich tones of dark green anchor the decor, enhanced by a combination of textures – polished wood, brown leather, and metal accents – all set to create a vibe of refined masculinity.
“I wanted the space to have a dark cigar lounge feel,” Shah explained, “without it being an actual cigar lounge. When you walk in, you get notes of vanilla, coffee, and a touch of tobacco. The whole place has a distinct look, smell, and feel – it’s something you remember. It’s truly an experience in itself.”
Every design element in Mane Studio is a reflection of Shah’s personal aesthetic and attention to detail – and his furniture was carefully curated to complement this vision. The barber chose Keller International to source pieces that embody the same values of quality, timeless design, and comfort.
“I was drawn to Keller furniture because of their focus on quality and timeless design. Their pieces resonate with the luxury and warmth I wanted for Mane Studio, making them a perfect fit for our aesthetic,” he said.
Among the standout selections are the brown Maverick barber chair and the Amare shampoo bowl and chair, which offer both functionality and a distinctive look that enhances the studio's atmosphere.
“These selections not only contribute to the overall design but also ensure our clients enjoy an unparalleled experience during their visits,” he noted.
The Path to Mane Studio
Shah’s path to opening Mane Studio was as thoughtfully designed as the studio itself. “Before I became a full-time barber, I had this vision,” he said. “I knew I wanted to create a space where I could capture and share my work freely. A haircut is art, and if you don’t capture it, it fades with time. I wanted a place where I could have everything set up – lights, camera, all ready to go with just one button.”
For Shah, this space isn’t just a workplace; it’s a canvas for his artistry, a hub for content creation, and a platform to showcase his skills to the world. With this vision in mind, Shah designed Mane Studio himself, meticulously curating each detail.
“The space is narrow but feels expansive, because I opted for a monochromatic green palette that enlarges it visually,” he told us. “I chose green because it allows me to incorporate texture, such as adding greenery behind mirrors and couches. Everything is intentional, from the velvet blue couches to the brown leather, creating layers that feel luxurious and inviting.”
Shah’s dedication to creating a sensory experience is evident, not solely in the studio's ambiance, but also in the products he uses.
“My space is green, so I went with Sleek and Shine shampoo and conditioner from Garnier in green apple – it’s a nod to the color of the studio and a refreshing scent. For styling, I only use L3VEL3 products, such as their Texturizing Salt Spray, Menthol Infused Hair Tonic, and Hair Styling Pomade. Every element here is curated to complement the overall experience,” he said.
As our conversation came to a close, we asked Shah what he’s known for among clients, and Shah’s response was simple: “Clients come to me because they know they’re not just getting a haircut – they’re getting an experience,” he smiled. “Anyone can give you a haircut, but at Mane Studio, you’re leaving with something that isn’t done anywhere else.”