Walk through the rod iron gates and welcome to heaven, umm, I mean Haven. This is no ordinary salon. There's no banging techno music, sterile swivel chairs, and stylists that look so stylish it's intimidating.

Owner Crysdian Llemson himself wears jeans and sneakers. When not working his hair magic, he can be found lounging in the adjacent garden. That's right, at Haven the highlight - besides the foil strips found on your head - is the outdoor garden, which Crysdian himself built.

Follow the gravel pathway, sit on the lounging chairs, or relax in the colorful covered patio area near the hanging plants. Sip on some tea and relax in serenity pre-appointment. Nestled within the garden are grapevines, an apple tree, and in the middle a fountain. Various bird feeders attract aviary friends, including multiple types of hummingbirds.

The garden is what makes the Haven experience complete. A true sanctuary, sitting in the garden one almost forgets about the hustle and bustle of the construction projects on Northwest 24th Street, where Haven is located. Not limited to the salon's clients, the general public is welcome to relax and take a break in the garden, perfect for coffee, reading, some R and R.

At a time when clients know more about styles and trends than ever before, Haven boasts in its quality personal service -listening to what the client wants and finding a style that is suitable, maintainable, and most importantly wearable.

Stylists focus on hair trends that are classy, not over-the-top trendy. You can sport looks that are stylish and season-appropriate without having to sacrifice personal comfort (not everyone can pull of blunt cut bangs). "We're not set in the trends. You can be trendy without being a slave to fads," says Llemson.

True to the character of Ballard, this salon is a no frills, no fuss kind of place; a place where you don't have to wait months to get in; a place that doesn't take control over your hair. You won't walk out with a style you regret. Llemson calls it a "no drama salon."

Haven is loyal to Ballard. Most of the d/cor both inside the salon and outside in the garden is from Ballard, from the furniture, ironwork, to the signage. Haven also sells products that are green-friendly, such as LOMA, a product line made in Washington.

Llemson and his stylists are into community building and advocating. According to Llemson's life motto, "Life has been good. When you feel blessed you give back to the community." Haven donates to various local charities, as well as donating gift certificates and services to local auctions, including some for Ballard High.

Services at Haven are approachable, which pertains to style, price, and even the scheduling. Most services average from $45-$85, haircuts priced from $60. Scheduling an appointment is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Haven doesn't want to make clients wait months on end just for a trim. If you show up, they want to make sure you leave happy.

Embrace a no-diva approach to beauty? Haven welcomes you. But when you leave Haven's gates, just be sure to say good-bye to the studio mascots, Crysdian's French bulldogs Neil and Rheiter. They'll tell you that Haven awaits you.

What:

Haven Salon

Where:

5810 24th Ave. N.W.

www.haven-salon.com

206.783.0537

When:

Hours are Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Esther Shin may be reached via bntedtor@robinsonnews.com