Hairdressing at Loft A2 is more than just a service: it’s an experience.
Loft A2 not only cuts, colors, and styles your hair, but makes sure you have a
fabulous time in the process.
Friendly smiles and greetings are the first things you’ll notice upon walking
into this cozy, four-station salon. “It’s not all about fashion and
glamour,” says owner P.J. Ciraulo. “You usually walk into a hair salon
and get a lot of attitude or ego. We have complimentary drinks, including sparkling
water, coffee with four different kinds of creamer, and several beers.”
For Loft A2, this welcoming vibe creates the perfect setting to chop or color
those locks.
With a free consultation before any major hairstyle change, you can be sure to
get what you’re looking for, even if you’re not sure what you want.
Ciraulo works with an experienced team of stylists who come from well-known Bay
Area salons such as Campbell’s Faux and San Jose’s 5 Color Cowboy.
“I’ve been doing hair since I was 15,” says Ciraulo. As well
as being involved in the managerial side of things, Ciraulo has his hands in every
aspect of the business. “The only day I’m not hairdressing is Tuesday,”
he says.
Styling, cutting, and coloring come in three price levels, depending on the stylist.
The salon also offers color touch-ups, partial and full highlights, perms, straightenings
and bridal or event styling for both men and women. If you’re itching to
pose, Loft A2 has a photo shoot package, where they will give you multiple looks
for each session. The variety and quality of services, in addition to superior
customer courtesy, make Loft A2 one of San Jose’s premier hair-care destinations.
The Loft A2 building itself is significant for its cultural history. Previously
housing 14 artists’ studios and a gallery, the building highlights the role
of music and culture in Loft A2’s services. In the salon, the prerequisite
Cosmo and Vanity Fair magazines are shelved alongside a host of
tattoo and motorcycle periodicals such as DicE and Rodz. Album
sleeves line the walls, reflecting Ciraulo’s 12-year history as a DJ. “You
can come in, get a haircut, and listen to music,” he says. “People
identify with the records.” Imagine perusing covers from Run-D.M.C. and
Ol’ Dirty Bastard or Missing Persons and Split Enz while waiting for your
appointment! Unique, progressive, alternative and eclectic, Loft A2 brings a certain
swagger to style. Loft A2 is located at 385 N. Third St. in San Jose. For more information,
call (408) 271-1970 or visit www.lofta2.com.
*This Article appeared in Volume 6, Issue 24 of The
Wave Magazine.
